Which of the following statements about social media is true?

• A. Social media can both positively and negatively affect individuals' sense of belonging.
• B. Social media always leads to increased face-to-face social interaction.
• C. Using social media guarantees improved mental health for all users.
• D. Social media has no impact on group dynamics or conformity.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of social media's impact on psychological factors such as sense of belonging, mental health, and social interaction.
2. Step 2: Recognize that social media can have both positive and negative effects on individuals, especially regarding their sense of belonging to groups or communities.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the statements by considering psychological research findings: social media does not always increase face-to-face interaction, nor does it guarantee improved mental health for all users.
4. Step 4: Consider the role of social media in group dynamics and conformity, noting that it does influence these processes contrary to the statement claiming no impact.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the statement acknowledging both positive and negative effects on sense of belonging is the most accurate based on psychological evidence.