Assessing the Potential and Complexities of Social-Media in Influencing the Mental Health of Today's Youth

Abstract

In the past two decades, the pervasive influence of new media has significantly shaped the lives of today's youth, presenting both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. Social networking platforms offer daily avenues for connecting with peers, classmates, and like-minded individuals. Extensive research has started to uncover the impact of social media experiences on adolescents' mental well-being. While acknowledging their developmental benefits, it's imperative to recognize the potential risks associated with excessive social media engagement, particularly concerning the emotional health of young individuals. This research delves into the potential and challenges posed by social media platforms on the mental health of youths. However, as the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, further investigation is essential. Present studies often rely on self-reported data on adolescent media usage, limited to singular time points, thereby hindering definitive conclusions on whether media use directly influences mental health outcomes or vice versa. Future research should adopt more comprehensive approaches, such as direct observation of adolescents' social media activities, and move beyond traditional notions of mere "screen time." It's crucial to explore specific social media experiences and individual traits that render certain adolescents more susceptible to the positive or negative effects of social media. Keywords: Social Media, Youth, Mental Health, Adolescents, Digital Influence