FEATURED MEDICAL EDUCATION TOPIC: Social Media and Health in Youth

What is the problem?

Surveys show that 90% of teens age 13-17 have used social media. On average, teens spend almost 9 hours online each day, excluding homework time. Social media’s impact on teenage mental health is multifaceted. While it can offer benefits, the potential for negative consequences is significant. By promoting healthy digital habits, encouraging open communication, and raising awareness, parents, educators, and teens themselves can work together to mitigate the risks and foster a more positive online experience.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, the learners will be able to:

• Examine the risks and benefits of cell phone and social media use in youth 
• Describe findings from The George Washington University Teen Social Connection Study, with an emphasis on school and parental rules on cell phone use
• Consider interventions to address problematic cell phone use and associated loneliness in youth

If your medical staff needs an update on the impact of social media on youth health, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 877-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

REFERENCES

https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Social-Media-and-Teens-100.aspx

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40172268

https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use#:~:text=Adolescents%20should%20be%20routinely%20screened,serious%20psychological%20harms%20over%20time.

https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-mental-health/social-media/index.html