Social media teaching kids about needs of others

AP

More than half of teenagers say social media sites like Facebook and Twitter have made them more aware of the needs of others.

That's according to a new survey by World Vision.

The survey carried out this month found a huge increase in the number of teens agreeing with this statement, from 44% in 2011 to 56% this year.

Over two thirds (68%) said that in terms of helping those in need, adults don't do enough to set a positive example.

When it comes to who should have responsibility for addressing the hunger in their local community, 66% said they themselves should and 76% said the church and other religious organisations should.

The poll was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of the Christian development agency.

The survey asked the views of 567 American youths between the ages of 13 and 17.