Digital world opportunities and risks for adolescents
Lesson

9 mins
10 recommendations for the use of social media for adolescents
Lesson

32 mins
Social media and mental health in adolescence - Conclusions
Lesson

3 mins

Social Media and Adolescent Mental Health

Duration: 43 mins Publication Date: 28 Jun 2023 Next Review Date: 14 Apr 2027

Learning Series Description

In this three-part learning series, Dr. Magis Weinberg explores the complex and evolving relationship between social media and adolescent mental health. Drawing on scientific research and developmental insights, she examines how digital platforms can offer opportunities for connection, learning, and expression—while also posing risks related to harmful content, exploitation, and problematic use. The series highlights the importance of going beyond screen time to consider content, context, and patterns of engagement, as well as the global disparities in access and research. Throughout, Dr. Magis Weinberg underscores the need for digital literacy, adult scaffolding, and evidence-based design and policy to support adolescent well-being online.

About this Learning Series

This learning series includes:

43 mins of on-demand video
Access on desktop, tablet and mobile

Details:

Level: All Levels
Language: English
Subtitles: English

Social media and mental health in adolescence - Conclusions

Duration: 3 mins Publication Date: 28 Jun 2023 Next Review Date: 28 Jun 2026 DOI: 10.13056/acamh.13703

Description

This talk is the third in a three-part series where Dr. Magis Weinberg explores the intricate relationship between social media and adolescent mental health. In this final session, she highlights why measuring screen time alone is insufficient for understanding digital experiences, emphasizing the need to examine content, context, and engagement patterns. She also discusses the global digital divide, stressing the lack of research on majority-world youth and the need for equitable access to online opportunities. Finally, she calls for improved digital literacy, scaffolding from families and schools, and stronger regulation of tech companies to ensure safer online environments for young people.

Learning Objectives

A. To understand why screen time alone is not a sufficient measure of social media’s impact.
B. To explore how adolescents’ online activities shift rapidly and involve diverse content.
C. To discuss the lack of research on majority-world youth and its consequences.