Psychologist warns of job burnout among young influencers
An increasing number of children and teenagers are choosing to create content on social media, viewing it as their dream job. However, psychologists are raising concerns, warning that young influencers are rapidly experiencing occupational burnout.
Teenage girls are increasingly becoming influencers, sharing their drawings, favourite toys, TV series, books, or films on social media. This trend provides a gateway for children and teenagers who dream of a career in social media. Given that many kids watch their favourite creators on YouTube or Instagram and perceive their lives as ideal, it is unsurprising that they see this as an easy career path.
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Psychologist warns of social media impact on young influencers
The Polish Press Agency has investigated the issue of burnout among teenage influencers, revealing serious concerns confirmed by child psychologist and Warsaw University lecturer Dr Aleksandra Piotrowska.
"In most cases, it is the parents' determination that plays a significant role. Children are not forced into anything, but it is the parents who shape their children's aspirations," Dr Piotrowska explained in an interview with the Polish Press Agency. She also noted that the age at which children begin to have their own smartphones has decreased by two years on average every five years.
Dr Piotrowska stresses that kids are vulnerable to online harassment right from the moment they start creating content. "Revealing personal details, especially on public channels, is risky. Exhibitionism as a means of attracting attention has become alarmingly common," she warned.
Young people suffer from occupational burnout
Dr Piotrowska emphasises that children who create content on social media are not simply playing around; they quickly become full-time employees and may experience job burnout as early as ages 15-17. "A young person aged 15-17 can be professionally burned out, displaying symptoms such as loss of enjoyment of life and satisfaction with tasks," explains Dr Piotrowska.
Furthermore, the lecturer points out that exposure to hate speech affects the fragile psyche of adolescents, leading to mental health problems and even the use of psychoactive drugs. "Just knowing that you are constantly subjected to judgment from others is incredibly aggravating," stresses the researcher.
Source: PAP
