Snapchat has become one of the most popular ways for tweens and teens to communicate. As of December 2024, Snapchat had an astounding 850 million monthly users. In Junior High, the app plays a major role in students’ social lives. According to a survey of 95 sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students at Carrollton, 71.6% reported using Snapchat daily.
For many, Snapchat is a must-have for staying connected. “Snapchat is needed so you can be social with your friends, and it’s an easier way to talk,” said Gabriella Bodoh ‘30. The app’s quick-sending pictures make it a better alternative to texting.
However, studies warn that Snapchat can have a negative impact on the mental health of teens.
Some students recognize these concerns. “I think it could be bad [for your mental health] because people are always posting for other people to see,” said Paola De La Iglesia ‘30. “It’s really hurtful when you see your friends hanging out without you.” The Child Mind Institute claims that social media sites like Snapchat are to blame for the increase in teen anxiety and depression, which is usually brought on by FOMO (fear of missing out) and pressure to stay up-to-date with friends, groups, parties, etc.
In addition, Snapchat’s streaks feature, which requires users to send snaps every day in an attempt to keep a running count, is one of its most addictive features and has turned into a time-consuming habit for many. “I have 94 streaks, and my longest streak is 187 days,” said Carolina Moreno ‘30. “It takes me like 15 minutes just to do them.”
Another risk Snapchat poses is impulse spending, particularly when it comes to streaks. A majority of students feel pressure to restore a lost streak, even if they must pay for it. “Sometimes my friends want me to restore the streak if it’s really high, [and] it’s hard to say no,” De La Iglesia said.
And since the introduction of Snapchat Plus, the spending has gone beyond just restoring streaks. Snapchat’s subscription-based service provides special benefits like personalizing the app’s icon, seeing who rewatched stories, and even pinning someone as your “best friend.” Many students at Carrollton have paid for the subscription.
Despite these concerns, students can’t seem to get enough of Snapchat. And it’s not just the appeal of staying connected. Students love posting updates on private stories, and they often come up with funny names for them. “My private story is called ‘Gal Pals,’ and it has 47 of my closest friends,” said Amelie Permuy ‘30. “I really like showing my friends what I’m doing throughout the day or funny things I’ve come across.”
However, not everyone enjoys the constant visibility Snapchat provides. Some students choose to turn off Snap Maps, the app’s location-sharing feature, for privacy reasons. “I don’t have my Snap Maps on because it’s an invasion of privacy,” said Carolina Azqueta ‘30.
All in all, despite the risks and concerns of Snapchat, it remains a popular platform at Carrollton.
