The Research is Clear
According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 90% of teenagers 13-17 have used social media. About 51% visit at least one social media site every day. On top of that, children are exposed to the Internet, smartphones, and social media platforms earlier and earlier.
In some ways, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Social media can be a great way for kids and teens to stay connected with friends and family. However, studies have shown that social media can also profoundly impact adolescent mental health. Let’s take a closer look at that impact so you can be more informed when it comes to your adolescent’s social media usage.
Increase in AnxietyBecause of the popularity and prominence of social media, it’s become extremely common for kids and teens to experience anxiety over it. First, it can cause frustration and fear if/when that young person isn’t able to “log in” or get on social media as often as they’d like. The anxiety this causes often comes from the worry that they’re “missing out” on what their friends say or do. Maybe you have boundaries in place or rules for when they can get on their phone or computer.
Social media can cause an emotional attachment. When that attachment is limited or broken, even for a day, it tends to create a lot of extra stress on young minds.
The Evidence of Addiction
Studies have shown that social media use can affect the reward centers in the brain. This is especially impactful for kids and teens. Young people don’t access the brain’s prefrontal cortex as rapidly as adults. This is the area of the brain responsible for making rational decisions and problem-solving.
When a person isn’t able to access that area right away, they’re more likely to make impulsive decisions and react to things without thinking them through. That’s one reason why social media use can feel like a bit of a “high” for younger individuals. It can even become somewhat addicting.
Self-Esteem Issues
Adolescents are already more vulnerable than most when it comes to self-esteem problems. Teens, especially, are in a fragile stage of life where things like bullying and body changes can lead to feelings of insecurity. Social media exacerbates that.
Not only is cyberbullying a concern, but your child or teen might experience a blow to their self-esteem simply by seeing a photo of their friends together and feeling left out. These issues can eventually cause young people to withdraw from social settings. They can become more isolated and less willing to reach out to their friends.
A Digital Lifestyle
Speaking of withdrawing from social situations, social media can take away from essential real-world experiences. While these platforms serve as a way to keep kids connected, they aren’t replacements for in-person gatherings and face-to-face conversations. If your child or teen seems to be doing most of their communication via social media, they could be missing out on learning key social skills that could impact their relationships and mental well-being later on in life.
What Can You Do?
As a parent, one of the best things you can do for the adolescents in your life is to set social media boundaries. Have clear expectations and rules for your child or teen. Talk to them openly and honestly about the pros and cons of social media. Don’t be afraid to discuss some of the risks.
If you want to know more about this impact or how you can discuss it with your child, feel free to contact me for additional information.
Wellness Matters as a Resource
Carolyn is a therapist who has worked with clients from the age of 4 and into later adulthood. Her past work experience includes 12 years of providing support and counseling services to students pre-K through 12th grade. She also provides support to administrators, teachers, parents, guardians, and grandparents. Her passion is to help people overcome hardship and discover hope.
Feel free to contact Wellness Matters to set up an appointment. You can connect with the Wellness Matters Intake Coordinator by texting or calling 218-616-1276.
At Wellness Matters, the intake process is all on-line and can be done in less than fifteen minutes. On-line appointments make it possible to attend appointments from the comfort from your home or office. In-person services may also be available for people living in northern MN.
