One positive way in which kids use social media is for social connection. By sharing photos and comments, they can stay in touch with peers and family members who live far away. Additionally, teenagers can join groups that align with their interests or identities, such as sports, theater, music, or LGBTQ pride and support.
Another positive aspect of social media use among adolescents is the opportunity it provides for learning. They can follow organizations related to art, local parks, or recipe bloggers. Some platforms even allow them to create and share their own content, such as crafts, hobbies, and artwork.
However, excessive use of social media can lead to a neglect of important activities like spending time with loved ones or getting enough sleep. It can also expose teenagers to violent, dangerous, or inaccurate content and contribute to issues with body image.
There have been debates about the connection between social media use and depression. While some studies suggest a correlation, it remains uncertain whether social media use causes depression or if individuals with depression are more likely to use social media. Numerous studies have found no significant relationship between social media use and depression symptoms, while others have found a small effect but only in cases of exceptionally high social media use.
It is crucial to note that these studies focus on the quantity of social media use and do not account for the unique ways in which each child engages with these platforms.
Recent research reveals that adolescents use social media differently, and some may be more susceptible to negative consequences than others. This concept, known as “differential susceptibility,” recognizes that adolescents have various combinations of risks and strengths that influence their social media use.
One study categorized teens into two groups: “Family-Engaged Teens” who had good communication with their parents about technology use and low levels of parental social media use, and “At Risk Teens” who reported higher rates of negative health outcomes like depression and loneliness, along with more frequent social media use by their parents. Other studies have also highlighted the association between parental social media use and higher depression symptoms in adolescents. These findings emphasize the positive role parents can play by communicating with their children about social media and acting as role models for healthy use.
To promote positive social media use for your child, consider the following steps:
– Establish a Family Media Plan with rules for social media use, and ensure that you are also following these rules as a role model.
– Have ongoing conversations with your child about their media use, including their preferences and any concerns they may have.
– If you use social media yourself, demonstrate positive actions by limiting usage during important family times.
– Be cautious about allowing children under 13 years old to use social media, as most platforms have a minimum age requirement of 13.
– If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, consult with your pediatrician.
For more information, visit HealthyChildren.org.
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ABOUT THE WRITERS
About Dr. Moreno
Dr. Megan Moreno, MD, MSEd, MPH, FAAP, is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Communication and Media. She is a leading researcher in social media and adolescent health at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
About Dr. Radesky
Dr. Jenny Radesky, MD, FAAP, is a renowned expert in developmental behavioral pediatrics at the University of Michigan Medical School. Her research focuses on technology use among parents and young children, parent-child relationships, and child social-emotional development.
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