Growing up is hard at any age, but today’s youth have it especially hard because of the pressures created by social media. A Pew Research Center survey found that nearly half of teens ages 13 to 17 were online almost constantly, and nearly all used a social media platform. Though there are some benefits to youth being connected to social media, there can be lot of harm too. Social media can amplify and distort negative self-images and encourage unfair comparisons with others. As Christians, we can remind young people that our true identity is found exclusively in God.
Bearing witness: “Get curious. Speak truthfully. Act boldly.”
Series editor’s note: The 2026 theme for “Deeper understandings” is faithful witness in challenging times. This year, various authors will explore what it means for the ELCA, and each of us…