Responsible Social Media PSA
Imagine you are part of a marketing team at a company that relies heavily on social media advertising to children ages 13 to 17. You want parents and children to be aware of your products and online services, but you want to be a responsible entity that understands Internet and social media addictions can occur.
Create a public service print or video announcement for distribution in targeted children’s magazines, websites, and social media. You have an unlimited budget and can retain the services of famous actors or singers, as well.
Consider the following when creating your announcement:
- What visuals will you include?
- Who or what will be the spokesperson to remind children to use social media responsibly?
- Who or what will you use to engage with your target market?
- What will you use for your headline (no more than 15 words)?
- Will you include information on screen time, using a blue light filter, and so on?
- Will you use rhyming words? Will it be a type of lyrics for a song?
Option 1: Print Option
- 8.5-inch by 11-inch Microsoft Word document featuring your choice of images and appropriate text with good use of white space
Option 2: Video Option
- 1-minute video including your choice of background, music, audio, and graphics with a stimulating lead, explanation about why the topic is important, and your persuasive message
After completing your public service announcement, write a 350- to 700-word explanation defending the choices you made in your announcement.
Include 1 source of your choice to defend your claims.
Format the sources according to APA guidelines.
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What visuals will you include?, Who or what will be the spokesperson to remind children to use social media responsibly?, Who or what will you use to engage with your target market?, What will you use for your headline (no more than 15 words)?, Will you include information on screen time using a blue light filter and so on?
Public Service Announcement — Print Option (Concept Design)
Headline (≤15 words):
“Scroll Smart. Live More. Your Time Matters.”
Visual Layout (8.5 x 11 inches):
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Top Half (Hero Image):
A popular teen-friendly celebrity (e.g., Zendaya, Kylian Mbappé, or Billie Eilish) smiling and holding a phone that displays a heart-shaped app icon fading into a real-life scene with friends playing basketball or drawing.
Meaning: Real life is brighter than endless scrolling. -
Center Text (Short & Kid-Friendly):
“Social media is awesome. But your mind, your friends, and your dreams matter more.
Set a time limit. Blink away from the screen. Create memories—not scrolls.” -
Lower Section (Education Box):
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“2 hours a day = healthier habits”
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“Use night mode or blue-light filter for your eyes”
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“Take a 10-minute break every hour”
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“Talk to someone if scrolling makes you feel stressed or left out”
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Engagement Feature (Gamified):
A QR code that links to:-
A 30-day “Screen Challenge” app: track time offline, win digital badges, and earn music skins.
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Brand Note (Small Print Bottom Center):
“We build tools for creativity—not distraction.”
350–700 Word Explanation (General & Academic)
This public service announcement is designed to reach teenagers aged 13 to 17 who are heavily exposed to social media advertising. The visual approach focuses on balance—acknowledging that social media is a natural part of teen culture while reinforcing healthier behaviors. The decision to use a relatable celebrity spokesperson is grounded in marketing psychology: teens respond strongly to recognizable influencers who reflect their aspirations and lifestyle choices. Using familiar faces also reduces perceived lecturing from adults and increases the emotional credibility of the message.
The headline “Scroll Smart. Live More. Your Time Matters.” is intentionally short, directive, and empowering. Rather than shaming teens for using digital platforms, the message promotes self-agency. The language encourages personal responsibility (“Your time matters”) in a way that teenagers can internalize without feeling attacked. A strong headline is essential in adolescent-targeted advertising because attention spans are short and visual overload is high, especially in digital environments.
The visuals include both digital and real-world elements, such as a celebrity shown in an offline activity like sports, art, or music. This pairing illustrates a contrast: social media does not have to replace life experiences. The design emphasizes lived identity, friendships, play, and hobbies—key developmental priorities for adolescents. Making this contrast visually clear allows teens to connect emotionally and cognitively, even if they do not consciously analyze the layout.