Sample Argumentative Synthesis Essay on Social Media

Below is a sample outline and a well-developed argumentative synthesis essay in APA 7^th ed. titled: “The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: A Synthesis of Perspectives.” This sample is intended to help students write better essays.

Argumentative Synthesis Essay: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Sample Argumentative Synthesis Essay Outline

1. Introduction
   • Hook: Start with a compelling statistic or anecdote related to social media and mental health.
   • Background: Provide context on the prevalence of social media usage and its increasing role in society.
   • Thesis Statement: State your argument about the impact of social media on mental health and mention the key points of contention you will address.
2. Body Paragraphs:
   1. Positive Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
      • Source 1: “The Supportive Role of Online Communities” – Summarize the source’s findings about how online communities can provide emotional support and reduce isolation.
      • Source 2: “Promoting Mental Health Awareness Through Social Media Campaigns” – Discuss how social media campaigns can raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues.
   2. Negative Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
      • Source 3: “Social Media and Cyberbullying: A Growing Concern” – Summarize the source’s findings on the connection between social media and cyberbullying, and its impact on mental health.
      • Source 4: “Social Comparison and Its Influence on Self-esteem” – Discuss the negative effects of constant social comparison on self-esteem and mental well-being.
   3. The Role of Social Media in Addressing Mental Health
      • Source 5: “Online Counseling Services: A New Frontier in Mental Health Care” – Explain how online counseling services through social media can be a valuable resource for those seeking help.
      • Source 6: “Limiting Screen Time: A Strategy for Preserving Mental Health” – Discuss strategies for responsible social media use and the importance of limiting screen time.
   4. Synthesis and Comparison
      • Identify Common Themes: Highlight recurring themes or shared findings across the sources.
      • Compare and Contrast: Discuss how the sources agree or disagree on the impact of social media on mental health.
      • Develop Your Argument: Use the synthesis of sources to argue your perspective on whether social media has a net positive or negative effect on mental health.
   5. Counterarguments
      • Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge potential counterarguments, such as the idea that social media’s impact on mental health varies among individuals.
      • Refutation or Qualification: Explain why these counterarguments do not undermine your overall argument or suggest ways to address their concerns.
3. Conclusion
   • Recap: Summarize the key points and arguments presented in the essay.
   • Restate Thesis: Reiterate your argument about the impact of social media on mental health.
   • Closing Thoughts: Offer final insights or recommendations based on your synthesis and argument.
4. Works Cited
   • List all the sources used in your essay in APA or MLA citation style, as per your instructor’s guidelines.
   • Follow any formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution, such as font size, margins, spacing, and citation style.

This outline provides a structure for an argumentative synthesis essay on the impact of social media on mental health, incorporating various perspectives and sources to support your argument.