The Impact of Social Media on Young People: A Rise in “Problematic” Use
A major international study has revealed a concerning trend among young people – a sharp rise in what researchers are calling “problematic” social media use since the pandemic. The Health Behaviour In School-aged Children (HBSC) study surveyed almost 280,000 children aged 11, 13, and 15 across 44 countries, finding that on average, 11% of respondents engaged with social media in a problematic way in 2022, compared to 7% in 2018.
The report’s authors are raising urgent concerns about the impact of digital technology on the mental health and well-being of Europe’s youth. They emphasize the need for more action to promote healthy online behaviors, especially among 13-year-olds, who are most commonly affected by problematic social media use, with girls more likely to report issues than boys.
While the study found that heavy, but not problematic, users of social media reported stronger peer support and social connections, it also highlighted addiction-like symptoms associated with problematic use, including neglect of other activities, frequent arguments about use, lying about time spent online, and an inability to control social media use.
Additionally, the study raised concerns about the proportion of teenagers at risk of “problematic gaming,” with boys more affected than girls. In England, 15% of teenagers were considered at risk, with high rates of daily gaming and long gaming sessions reported among 13-year-old boys.
Dr. Hans Henri P Kluge, the WHO’s regional director for Europe, emphasized the need for more digital literacy education to help young people develop a healthy approach to being online. He called for immediate and sustained action to address the potentially damaging effects of social media use on young people’s mental health.
Overall, the study serves as a valuable snapshot of the evidence surrounding social media use among young people, highlighting both positive and negative consequences. It underscores the importance of collaboration among governments, health authorities, teachers, and parents to support adolescents in navigating the digital world responsibly.
