By Ikon Kim, Vth Form

Editor’s Note: This was winning submission for the Harvard International Review Writing Competition, earning a Gold Medal (Top 3% of all submitted articles).

In a world of rapid change, information is more important to our daily lives than ever before. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become the base ground for exchanging knowledge, making it critical to discern facts from mere fabrications or half-truths. Creators intentionally spread misinformation for fame and financial gain, without taking responsibility for those most under their influence—teenagers. Despite the amount of time young people spend using social media, many lack the skills and experience to differentiate facts from falsehoods. A survey shows that teens were more likely to agree with conspiracy theories than adults; teens who spend more time on social media are even more gullible. Fitness influencers exploit this vulnerability through comparison culture, promoting the use of Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) to make money. They show only one side of the drugs, while hiding or spreading misinformation about the dangerous side effects. Misinformation about PEDs in the digital age is particularly dangerous for adolescents, whose emotional vulnerability leaves them susceptible to falling prey to body dysmorphia—and the promise of a better body through PEDs.

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