As we enter Lent, a time of sacrifice and reflection, all members of the Bishop England community are challenged to reflect on their use of social media and its effect on their lives. All are encouraged to limit their use of social media as a sacrifice and an opportunity to fill this time with prayer, service, and reflection. We will BE disconnected from social media during Lent. Please refer to our website for news and updates.

Proposal

For the faculty, staff and students to limit their use of social media during Lent.

Rationale

Recent research has indicated that the constant use of smart phones and social media contributes to a negative impact on both mood and behavior of students in their teens. In her book, iGen, Dr. Jean Twenge documents these changes in mood and behavior.  Dr. Twenge has been doing research for 25 years on generational differences and has noticed a significant shift in the generation of people born between 1995 and 2012.  It was in 2012 that the number of Americans who owned smart phones eclipsed fifty percent. Her research demonstrates that the increased use of social media has prompted a surge in feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.  Teens also seem to be getting less sleep and having fewer interactions with their peers, and their emotional maturity has been delayed as a result.

Challenge

As we enter Lent, a time of sacrifice and reflection, all members of the Bishop England community are challenged to reflect on their use of social media and its effect on their lives.  All are encouraged to limit their use of social media as a sacrifice and an opportunity to fill this time with prayer, service, and reflection. Some may feel compelled to give up all social media during this time; others may choose to refrain from using one or more social media platforms, such as Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter or Facebook during this season of Lent. Those who are unable to give up social media are encouraged to post only things that are positive, uplifting, and not self-promoting. This positive approach – or making the sacrifice to give up social media – will hopefully prepare the hearts of all who participate for the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday!