Jan. 8, 2024—Not so long ago, teens socialized by hanging out at the mall. But for today's teens, social media platforms have replaced physical hangouts. And that worries many parents.
Teen social media use
A 2023 Pew Research Center survey found that most of the teen respondents visited social media sites daily. The percentage of teens who said they were almost constantly online has nearly doubled since a 2014–2015 survey. YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram are the most popular sites, followed by Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter).
How social media affects teens
Social media use isn't all negative for teens, says the Office of the Surgeon General. Some of its benefits include:
- Connection with other teens who have similar identities and interests.
- A feeling of being included and accepted.
- Expression of creativity and individuality.
However, frequent social media use can affect the adolescent brain. The parts of the brain that regulate impulse control and emotional intelligence are still developing. Teens are especially sensitive to social pressure. Research suggests that social media overuse can increase a teen's:
- Symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Tendency to compare themselves unfavorably to others.
- Poor self-image.
Social media sites also can expose teens to racist and explicit content, as well as bullying behavior.
What parents can do
There are many steps you can take to encourage your teen to use social media safely.
Have regular discussions. Talk with your teen about the sites they use. Explain how they can use social media to find helpful, accurate information. Ask them what they might do if they felt bullied or unsafe online. Then come up with an action plan together.
Monitor and limit use. When possible, supervise your teen's content and posts. Establish "unplugged" times when the whole family avoids smartphones and computers—for example, during dinner or while in the car together.
Keep an eye out for overuse. If you suspect your teen's social media use is interfering with their sleep, schoolwork, friendships, work or social activity, talk to them openly about your concerns.
How much do you know about teens and social media? Test yourself with our interactive quiz.
Sources
- American Psychological Association. "Keeping Teens Safe on Social Media: What Parents Should Know to Protect Their Kids." https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/social-media-parent-tips.
- Pew Research Center. "Teens, Social Media and Technology 2023." https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2023/12/11/teens-social-media-and-technology-2023/.
- U.S. Surgeon General. "Social Media and Youth Mental Health." https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/youth-mental-health/social-media/index.html.