Social Interaction among among peers is a highly beneficial practice that has been enjoyed since time immemorial. Sadly, it has gradually been replaced by social media presence. Although social media presence can be said to be good, but it has many more disadvantages people don't notice. And compared to physical social interaction, it is not as fulfilling as when guys hand out and chat.
Looking at today's social media, addictions and depression has become the end point of social media presence because either you find it difficult to share your time properly and be productive or you run into depression when you try to compare your life the the life of other people that show off on social media. This is the reason parents ought to regulate the age in which their children begins to have access to social media.
Benefits of Social Interaction Among Peers
While the role of physical social interaction among peers can be enhance by social media, the importance it brings has remained unmatched. Below are some of the reasons physical peer to peer or group interaction should be encouraged especially with the growing age;
Boost Confidence
Physical peer to peer interaction tends to boost their confidence which is carried to other areas of life. The affirmation, praises/hailing and encouragement received from peers create a sense of self-worth, empowering individuals to navigate social situations with assurance.
Improves Learning
It is true that we have learning tools on the internet which is cool but these tools are only used when you intensionally want to study or do research on something. On the other hand, positive social interaction among peers improves one learning because ideas and information are being shared.
Engaging in meaningful conversations with peers stimulates intellectual growth. Debating ideas, sharing knowledge, and exploring different viewpoints contribute to cognitive development. Social interactions challenge individuals to think critically and expand their understanding of the world.
Peaceful Coexistence
Before when there was no social media, and all interactions where physical, the level of malice, beef and quarrel were not as it is in today's world. People acted and were corredcted when their are wrong because the societal values and norms has not been diluted. Unlike on social media where everyone one is living in imaginary world where they are the maker of norms, standard and values of the society.
Off course when everyone has the same value and norms, respect and peaceful coexistence trives.
Reduces Social Isolation
Social interaction provides a platform for emotional expression and support. Engaging with peers allows individuals to share their thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. The emotional support gained through friendships acts as a buffer against stress and enhances overall mental well-being.
Off course there is teasing and cruise on social media but can not be compared to physical yabbs, teasing and play among peers where real laughs and demonstration leads to joy.
Perspective and Diversity
Socializing exposes individuals to a variety of perspectives, ideas, and cultures. Interacting with peers from different backgrounds fosters tolerance and broadens one's worldview. This diversity in social interactions contributes to the development of open-mindedness and an appreciation for differences.
Establishing a Support System
Friendship built through physical interactions serve as a crucial support system during both good times and challenges. Having a network of peers provides individuals with encouragement, advice, and a sense of community, contributing to their overall resilience in the face of adversity. This is hardly seen in social media life because people portray what they are not to their friends or peers.
And many people also find it difficult to open up on social media as their story would be just topic for discussion and ridicule. This often lead people to depression instead of opening up.
Sharing of Life Changing Ideas
Physical social interaction has remained the number mode of getting life changing ideas because of the encouragement and motivation it brings with the ideas. It also encourages teamwork which is essential in personal relationships and also translate into professional success. Learning to navigate social situations prepares individuals for the challenges of the real world.
Psychological Well-being
A lot of research has encouraged physical social interaction as it improves the psychological well-being of friends and family. It is not news that good physical interactions positively affects our mental well-being because it reduces the rate of anxiety and depression, boosts self esteem, trust and good relationships.
Conclusion
It is worthy to understand that the importance of social interaction among peers extends far beyond casual conversations. It is a fundamental aspect of personal development, contributing to emotional well-being, skill acquisition, diverse perspectives, cognitive growth, and the establishment of a robust support system.