Which is a potential negative impact of social media on health behaviours?

• A. It guarantees accurate health information.
• B. It directly improves daily exercise routines.
• C. It can lead to isolation and unhealthy behaviours.
• D. It has no effect on mental health.

Answer: (C)

Social media can shape health behaviours in both positive and negative ways. A key negative possibility is that it can lead to isolation and unhealthy behaviours. When online interactions replace face-to-face contact, social support for healthy routines like regular exercise or balanced eating can diminish. At the same time, exposure to highly curated images and posts fosters social comparison and body-image concerns, which can undermine motivation for healthy choices and sometimes drive unhealthy behaviours. Additionally, the rapid spread of unverified or sensational health advice can lead people to adopt risky practices or abandon evidence-based routines. While social media can also motivate and inform, this option highlights a real risk that can negatively affect health behaviours. The other statements describe positive effects or no effect, which doesn’t capture this potential downside.