Warning Signs of Social Media Addiction in Teenagers

With TikTok, YouTube, and other social media apps offering endless temptations to scroll, social media addiction in teens is potentially at an all-time high. As these apps are algorithmically generated to cater to a teen’s every whim or designed to create addictive dopamine feedback loops, it makes sense that many young people find them hard to resist. Continue reading to learn more about the warning signs of social media addiction. If you believe your child has been harmed, contact us at Douglas & London for a free consultation.

Social Media Addiction in Teens is On the Rise

A 2022 study from the Pew Research Center shows that 36% of teens believe they spend too much time on social media. That number may seem significant; however, the actual percentage of teens spending an unhealthy amount of time on these apps (rather than the self-reported percentage) is probably larger. Moreover, it may seem that social media is too great a presence for anyone to curtail its harmful effects. However, as more information comes to light—such as Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen’s damaging testimony, many parents have begun to fight back with social media lawsuits.

How Much Screen Time Is Unhealthy?

One study reports that more than 30 minutes a day spent on social media is unhealthy, but some teens spend up to 9 hours daily. Any young person who falls between those two numbers may suffer from social media addiction. And like any other addiction, it can stunt the healthy social development of a teenager and can even put them in danger. To bolster that statement, let’s look more closely at the harmful effects of social media using the signs of addiction previously given. 

How is Social Media Harming Young People?

When young people engage in reclusive behavior and cannot or will not participate in social/family events, the most important bonds in their lives can begin to weaken. Likewise, when they neglect their studies, they endanger their future. In addition, using their phones while driving can put their lives and those around them in immediate physical danger. As a result, they can feel completely isolated when they drop out of the real world, its activities, and its relationships.

Further, more and more research indicate that teen social media addiction can cause anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and self-harm. Whether caused by cyberbullying, body dysmorphia, or desocialization, these are genuine issues–where the blame clearly can’t be placed squarely on their shoulders or their parents.

Contact us at Douglas and London

Lawsuits are currently in progress against social media companies for the harm perpetrated against children and teenagers. If you believe your teen has been harmed, you may be able to file a social media lawsuit as well. Call us now for a free consultation; there is no obligation to hire us afterward. And since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your injuries. We look forward to hearing from you.