Teen Loneliness Linked to Social Media & Smartphone Use

 

Social connection is essential for healthy youth development but there needs to be a healthy balance between online social interaction and in-person real-life connections. Although social media’s initial purpose was to bring people together, studies have shown that excessive use of social media and smartphones put teens at risk of loneliness and social isolation leading to decreased in-person interactions. 

The percentage of teens age 13-17 who say they are online “almost constantly” has doubled since 2015. This is concerning because youth may begin to prioritize online relationships over real-life connections. Constant exposure to idealized images on social media and negative online experiences can make teens feel isolated, inadequate, or even shunned. The more youth spend time online, the greater their risk of enduring harassment and cyberbullying. Gaming also feeds into this risk as it is another outlet for kids to live their lives online. 

Other dangers are associated with youth spending excessive amounts of time online - social media platforms are often used by the drug trade to target young people. Communications may contain slang terms for drugs and emoticons or emojis as a type of secret code to access illicit substances. 

Parents must be aware, be vigilant, and talk to kids about how to avoid potentially harmful interactions online and on social media platforms. Best protective factors include setting practical limitations on screentime and encouraging more real-time interaction with friends and family. This helps create boundaries and fosters a healthy sense of belonging for kids within their family/friend groups, school setting, and community environment.