The families of four teenagers who died by suicide recently sued Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, alleging that the teenagers’ use of the platforms over many years was addicting, and caused sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. The teenagers committed suicide at the ages of 13, 14, 17, and 18, respectively.
These are not the first suits filed against social media platforms, but they have not made an impact on continued use by children and teens.
Research shows that spending more than three hours a day on social media platforms doubles teenage depression and anxiety risk. According to the Child Mind Institute, “kids are growing up with more anxiety and less self-esteem” because of social media use. This is not solely related to the overuse of social media, just the use.
The social media companies maintain that monitoring children’s and teens’ use of their platforms is the parents’ sole responsibility. At the same time, the debate continues as a growing body of research suggests that platform algorithms may encourage compulsive or addictive behavior. Many parents report feeling overwhelmed by the challenge, struggling to counter the influence of technologies designed to maximize user engagement.
That said, as these claims and defenses weave their way through the cumbersome legal system, there are practical steps parents can take to help manage their children’s social media use, including utilizing parental controls and other safety features available on many platforms.
Here are a few additional resources:
https://www.strong4life.com/en/parenting/screen-time/digital-detox-how-to-limit-screen-time-for-kids
https://support.apple.com/en-us/105121
In addition, the Federal Trade Commission has launched Youville, a tool designed to teach kids about online safety skills beyond limiting screen time. It provides activity sheets, discussion topics, and arts and crafts projects designed to teach kids about safe online activities. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the risks social media can pose to children’s mental health and behavior. They can play an important role in limiting screen time, teaching safe and responsible online habits, and fostering healthy digital boundaries to reduce potential risks to their children and families.
Parents and caregivers should be aware of the risks social media can pose to children’s mental health and behavior. They can play an important role in limiting screen time, teaching safe and responsible online habits, and fostering healthy digital boundaries to reduce potential risks to their children and families