NAIROBI, Kenya – Due to various issues in social media platforms, individuals have adopted strategies like customizing their feeds, taking breaks, or even deleting their accounts altogether.
A recent report released by Common Sense Media and Hopelab showed the existing relationship between social media and the mental well-being of young people, featuring insights from adolescents and young adults aged 14 to 22.
The study explored how various factors; including race, sexual orientation, and mental health conditions like depression, influence individuals’ experiences with social platforms.
Contrary to the narrative often shown in media, the report highlighted a multifaceted view among teens regarding social media’s effects.
While acknowledging its role in promoting social connections, self-expression, and information sharing, participants also expressed concerns about its impact on attention span, self-esteem, and overall happiness.
Amy Green, Head of Research at Hopelab, emphasized the need for a nuanced understanding.
“If we truly want to improve the well-being of young people, we need to listen to their experiences and ensure that we do not inadvertently remove access to crucial positive benefits,” she stated.
The study comes amidst a national youth mental health crisis, with rising rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among adolescents.
Social media’s influence on mental health remains a central topic in discussions surrounding these issues, although the causes are multifaceted.
Researchers from the NORC at the University of Chicago found that while rates of depressive symptoms have slightly decreased from pandemic highs, they still remain eminent.
Moreover, LGBTQ+ youth and individuals with depression are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of social comparison and online harassment.
Despite these challenges, participants also highlighted the positive aspects of social media, such as seeking support, connecting with like-minded individuals, and accessing educational resources.
Additionally, platforms serve as spaces for creativity and professional opportunities, especially for marginalized groups.
Dr. Mitch Prinstein, Chief Science Officer at the American Psychological Association, cautioned against overly simplistic interpretations of self-reported data, noting that individuals may not fully understand the effects of media use on their well-being.
As social media usage becomes increasingly popular, many participants struggle with obsessive behavior and difficulty controlling their screen time.
Dr. Douglas Gentile, Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Iowa State University, highlighted the need for platforms to prioritize user well-being over profit.
Moreover, parents should guide their teens’ social media usage, with open communication being key to fostering healthy online habits.
