Is Social Media Harmful? Argumentative Essay with Outline + Sample

Is Social Media Harmful? Argumentative Essay with Outline + Sample (2025 Guide)

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, learn, and engage with the world. But while it offers countless benefits, it also raises serious concerns—especially among parents, educators, and mental health professionals. In this post, we’ll explore both sides of the argument and provide you with an essay outline and a free sample to inspire your writing.

 

 

 Why This Topic Matters

Whether you're working on an argumentative essay for school or crafting your SBA project, discussing the impact of social media on society is more relevant than ever in 2025.

 Argumentative Essay Outline: Is Social Media Harmful?

• Introduction – Briefly introduce the popularity and influence of social media. End with a thesis statement that previews your main argument.
• Body Paragraph 1: Positive Impacts – Communication, awareness, education, connection, etc.
• Body Paragraph 2: Negative Impacts – Cyberbullying, addiction, misinformation, mental health issues.
• Body Paragraph 3: Balancing Use – Discuss how responsible use and digital literacy can minimize harm.
• Conclusion – Reaffirm your argument. Is social media harmful? State your conclusion with impact.

 Sample Paragraph

While social media enhances connectivity, its overuse among teenagers has contributed to rising levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep deprivation. A study by the Royal Society for Public Health (UK) found that platforms like Instagram and TikTok negatively affect mental health by promoting unrealistic body standards and reducing in-person interaction. Thus, without digital boundaries, social media can become more harmful than helpful.

 Argument Ideas (for or against)

• 📱 FOR: Social media supports education, builds communities, and spreads awareness globally.
• 💔 AGAINST: Social media fuels cyberbullying, misinformation, comparison culture, and addiction.

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• Argumentative Essay About Social Media
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🧩 Final Thoughts

Whether you believe social media is a blessing or a curse, it's a debate worth exploring. Use the outline above to shape your essay and back up your opinion with facts, examples, and solid reasoning. Don’t forget to revise your final draft using our SBA writing checklist!

✅ What do you think? Is social media more harmful or helpful? Let us know in the comments below or use this topic in your own SBA project!