I only use Instagram for business purposes, so not in the same way as the younger generations do, but my take on all this is that just like in real life you're only presenting your best self in public (usually) and on your best behavior if a couple is troubled behind closed doors or if individuals go through bouts of depression. BUT on Instagram, the good and happy and perfect is magnified out of proportion and and perhaps exaggerated using bright filters so your real life reflection in the mirror can't compare at all. It is an addictive activity and can become a problem if no limits are set. I'm not sure it's creating problems that aren't already present in a person's psyche but it can surely magnify them, I'm thinking. I don't know the solution, except awareness and limitations.

Michael Smerconish used to be an all-too-familiar right-wing voice on Philadelphia radio. Ick.