Eight in 10 teens (80%) use social media, mostly to keep in touch with friends, according to a Harris Interactive study for child sponsorship charity World Vision. More than half (57%) share photos, videos, or links on the sites, and more than a third express their opinions on various issues (37%) or friend/follow favorite charities or causes (34%).
Though use of social media is widespread, more teens would give it up for a day than would give up videogames, TV, sports, cell phones, or computers.
Teens’ leisure activities haven’t changed much since 2010, with the exception of an increase in videogaming — 72% play in 2011, up from 63% last year.
Four in 10 teens (43%) participate in activities that support charitable causes, such as volunteering or joining fundraising events. Just over a quarter (26%) donate money to causes. [Youth, Leisure]
Source: “A Study About Teens, Charity, and Social Media,” World Vision, Michele Tvedt, National Manager, 30-Hour Famine, PO Box 9716, Department W, Federal Way, WA 98063; 888-511-6548 or 253-815-1000; mtvedt@worldvision.org; www.worldvision.org
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