Social Media Time and Teen Mental Health: Evidence from U.S. Cohort Study Social media is central to teenage life, with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat shaping communication, social identity, and self-expression. While these tools offer social benefits, researchers are increasingly concerned about potential mental health impacts of excessive use. This article summarizes a 2019 U.S. study by Riehm and colleagues, which examined how time spent on social media relates to adolescent mental health , including symptoms of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. You’ll learn which usage patterns may pose risks, who is most affected, and practical insights for parents, educators, and policymakers. Background / Context Adolescents are spending more time online than ever before, but the relationship between social media use and mental health remains complex. Some teens benefit socially, while others experience emotional strain. The 2019 study surveyed...
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