Can Social Media Predict Teen Health Risks?
A groundbreaking study from the University of Texas at Arlington investigates how teens' social media activity affects their mental health and risk behaviors, aiming to improve prevention strategies and parental guidance.
This fall, a pioneering study led by researchers at The University of Texas at Arlington aims to explore how adolescents' daily social media interactions may influence their mental health and risk behaviors. The research team, including Professors Melissa Lewis and Dana Litt from the School of Social Work, in collaboration with Karrie Curry from the University of North Texas Health Science Center, will monitor 250 teenagers from diverse backgrounds across Texas over a six-week period. Participants will complete daily surveys capturing their social media activity, specifically focusing on how their engagement with content related to mental health and substance use impacts their feelings of anxiety, depression, and propensity for risky behaviors.
A follow-up after 12 months will assess whether these short-term interactions can predict more serious issues in the future. Unlike prior studies that mainly measured time spent online, this research delves into what teens see, share, and respond to on social platforms, offering a nuanced understanding of social media’s influence on health behaviors.
Dr. Litt emphasizes investigating specific engagement patterns, such as viewing versus sharing risky content, to determine their significance in health risks. The findings could inform better prevention strategies and provide parents with guidance on navigating their children's digital worlds.
The study also highlights the balanced perspective that online experiences can offer benefits alongside risks. By encouraging open conversations about online activities and emotional well-being, parents can foster healthier digital habits. Lewis notes that intervention strategies should focus on dialogue rather than reactions, promoting adolescent development and well-being.
Ultimately, this research aims to underpin effective prevention measures and promote healthy adolescent growth in an increasingly digital society.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-social-media-teen-health.html
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