The impact of social media on the mental health of young people is a hotly debated topic. While there are concerns, it’s important to also consider the potential benefits that social media provides to teenagers. Recent moves by Congress and state legislatures, as well as calls from the U.S. Surgeon General, have focused on regulating social media use among minors. However, experts warn that these actions might overlook the positive effects that these platforms can have on teens.
The Debate Over Social Media Regulation
In June, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy recommended warning labels for social media platforms. The Senate quickly followed by passing two bills on July 30: the Kids Online Safety Act and the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act. Additionally, more than 30 states are considering legislation that includes age restrictions, parental consent, and digital literacy courses for students.
While there’s evidence suggesting that certain aspects of social media can be harmful, like the spread of misinformation, distractions, and cyberbullying, there are also studies highlighting its benefits. According to Linda Charmaraman, a research scientist at the Wellesley Centers for Women, social media can reduce feelings of isolation, especially for marginalized groups such as children of color and LGBTQ+ youth. Age bans, she argues, could disproportionately affect these groups, who often rely on social media for support and community.
Real-Life Impacts of Social Media on Teens
For some teens, social media plays a crucial role in helping them feel connected. Arianne McCullough, a 17-year-old freshman at Willamette University, uses Instagram to connect with other Black students at her predominantly white school. For Arianne, social media provides a vital support system that helps her navigate the challenges of being a minority in her environment.
However, Arianne also experienced the downsides of social media. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she found herself comparing her body to others she saw online, leading to negative feelings about herself. Though she eventually reduced her social media use, the fear of missing out drew her back in, highlighting the complex relationship many teens have with these platforms.
The Complexity of Social Media’s Impact on Mental Health
Before the pandemic, mental health issues among young people were already rising. Surveys by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed increasing rates of hopelessness, sadness, and suicidal thoughts among high school students. The growth of social media has often been blamed for worsening this crisis. However, a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine emphasizes that the relationship between social media and youth mental health is not straightforward. While there are potential harms, social media can also provide support and a sense of belonging.
The report also cautions against legislation like Utah’s, which imposes age and time limits on social media use. Such measures could unintentionally isolate young people from their support networks. Instead, the report suggests focusing on privacy protections and education about the mental health effects of social media, as seen in policies adopted by states like Virginia and Maryland.
Moving Forward: A Balanced Approach to Social Media Regulation
The Kids Online Safety Act, currently under consideration in the House of Representatives, aims to protect young users from harm by requiring parental consent for those under 13 and imposing responsibilities on companies to safeguard users under 17. Meanwhile, lawsuits against companies like Meta highlight the ongoing debate over the role of social media in young people’s lives.
Jenny Radesky, a physician and co-director of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, argues that while age bans and other regulations are well-intentioned, they may not address the root cause of the problem. She points out that social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged, which can negatively impact mental health.
To protect teens, it may be more effective to address the business models of these platforms rather than simply imposing restrictions on users.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
- National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine – Report on Social Media and Youth Mental Health
- KFF Health News – Analysis of the impact of social media on adolescent mental health
This article is based on information from KFF Health News, a leading source of health journalism and research.
