Teenagers Take Steps to Reduce Social Media Use, Study Finds
A recent American study has shown that teenagers are more aware of the impact of social networking on their daily lives than previously believed. The study, conducted by Rutgers University – New Brunswick and interviewing 13- to 16-year-olds in the US and Canada, revealed that teenagers are actively managing their potential social media addiction.
Contrary to stereotypes, teenagers are taking measures to reduce their social media usage. The study focused on how teens voluntarily stopped using social networking applications, the methods they used to reduce their usage, and their motivations behind discontinuing use.
Researchers found that teenagers introduced small “frictions” to limit their screen time on social media, such as turning off notifications or setting time limits. Teenagers are becoming increasingly aware of the negative effects of social media on their mental and physical health, aligning with efforts by platforms to better manage screen use.
Many of the teens interviewed reported going on social networks out of boredom or as a time filler, but they are now conscious of the effects of social media on their well-being. Some teenagers are even seeking help from their parents to better control their smartphone use, like Sonya, a 14-year-old girl who asked her father to set a code to limit her screen time.
Teenagers are also more aware of the impact of excessive social media use on their future, particularly on their studies. As they approach college admissions, teens are realizing the importance of managing their screen time to prioritize academic success.
While teenagers are utilizing features on their smartphones and social media platforms to control their usage, the study suggests that more improvements are needed from these companies to better serve teens. The research highlights that the work is ongoing to address the impact of social media on the younger generation.
