CJohnson1052
Aug 24, 2025
Writing Feedback / An essay titled Social Media and Teen Mental Health [2]
This is a rough draft of an 8-10 page research paper on social media and how it affects teen mental health. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Coty Johnson
Professor Ryan Jones
ENG102: Rough Draft
August 23rd, 2025
Social Media and Teen Mental Health
Teen social media use is nearly universal, and its intensity continues to grow each year. Nearly half of U.S. teens report being online almost constantly, according to Monica Anderson and colleagues at the Pew Research Center (Faverio et al.). This level of engagement raises important questions about how extensive screen time affects adolescent development. I chose to research this topic because it directly impacts my generation and has become a public health concern. Understanding the psychological effects of social media is essential for parents, educators, policymakers, and teens themselves. By exploring both the risks and potential protective strategies, we can better support adolescents in navigating the digital world. Social media has been linked to rising anxiety and depression among teens, as highlighted by Erika Edwards and Hallie Jackson, and the Surgeon General has emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue (Edwards and Jackson). Devendra Agrawal's research further confirms that frequent social media use correlates with higher rates of depression and anxiety among adolescents (Agrawal). This is not merely about technology; it is about the well-being of an entire generation.
Over the past decade, social media has become a central part of adolescent life. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube influence the way teens interact, learn, and perceive themselves. While these platforms offer benefits, including enhanced connectivity, educational resources, and opportunities for self-expression, heavy use has raised mental health concerns. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable because their brains are still developing and they are navigating identity formation, peer relationships, and social validation simultaneously. Research indicates that social comparison, cyberbullying, and exposure to unrealistic ideals contribute to mental health difficulties (Katella). Maintaining a curated online persona can provoke anxiety, while negative interactions, including online harassment, can increase stress and lower self-esteem.
The pace of social media adoption among teens has accelerated rapidly. Pew Research Center data show that the average teen spends more than seven hours a day on digital media outside of schoolwork, with nearly half online almost constantly (Faverio et al.). This rise in screen time coincides with increasing rates of depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and reduced physical activity (Rideout and Fox). The intensity and nature of social media engagement, not just its presence, are critical. Constant scrolling, comparison, and messaging can lead to emotional burnout, diminished focus, and heightened feelings of inadequacy.
Social media impacts teens' daily lives in significant ways. Persistent exposure to online content can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey links frequent social media use to higher instances of persistent sadness and hopelessness among high school students (Young et al.). Social comparison encourages teens to measure their self-worth against curated images of peers and influencers, often distorting perceptions of reality. Cyberbullying further compounds these challenges, with victims reporting feelings of isolation and insecurity. Fear of missing out is another psychological factor that drives excessive engagement. Teens often feel pressure to respond immediately to messages, maintain an online presence, and follow trends, which can disrupt sleep, reduce focus, and heighten stress. While parents and educators are increasingly aware of these risks, interventions remain limited. Time limits and encouraging digital breaks can provide short-term relief but do not address the underlying causes.
Daily experiences on social media vary widely. For some teens, logging in begins with checking notifications immediately after waking, scrolling through posts during meals, and remaining online until late at night. Platforms are designed to capture attention through likes, comments, and shares, which release dopamine and reinforce continued engagement. A positive interaction may boost self-esteem temporarily, but negative comments or lack of engagement can lead to frustration and sadness. Teens who encounter unrealistic beauty standards, highlight reels of peers, or viral challenges may feel pressure to conform, often sacrificing authenticity for online approval. These experiences illustrate that social media is not simply a tool but an environment that can shape emotions, self-perception, and behavior on a continuous basis.
Long-term repercussions of unchecked social media use are substantial. Chronic exposure to stressful online environments can disrupt emotional regulation, social development, and sleep patterns, impairing cognitive performance and overall well-being (Agrawal). Academic performance may suffer as attention spans shorten, and social skills may be underdeveloped due to reduced face-to-face interaction. Over time, these issues can create a generation more vulnerable to mental health challenges, difficulties forming healthy relationships, and reduced resilience. The implications extend beyond individuals to families, schools, and communities, making this a public health priority. Social media's influence on identity development can carry into adulthood. Adolescents who consistently equate self-worth with online approval may struggle to form confidence in real-world settings, affecting career choices, romantic relationships, and the ability to cope with stress.
Effective interventions require both immediate and long-term strategies. Short-term measures such as parental monitoring, setting screen time limits, and promoting offline activities can help mitigate immediate risks (Katella). Schools can implement mental health education programs and peer mentoring to support students in navigating online experiences. Programs that teach digital literacy can help teens identify misinformation, understand algorithm-driven content, and manage online relationships responsibly. Long-term solutions demand team efforts among tech companies, policymakers, educators, parents, and mental health professionals. Platforms should take responsibility for user well-being through stronger content moderation, transparent algorithms, and safer online environments (Edwards and Jackson). Government regulations and research-informed guidelines can support families and schools in adopting best practices. Public health campaigns may also raise awareness of social media's impact on adolescent mental health, highlighting both risks and protective behaviors.
Despite these concerns, social media is not entirely harmful. Platforms can foster connection, creativity, and access to educational resources. Teens who feel isolated can find support networks online, and those with niche interests can connect with like-minded peers. Social media can also provide opportunities for civic engagement, volunteerism, and advocacy. For example, teens may participate in environmental campaigns, social justice movements, or creative projects that encourage collaboration and skill development. Edwards and Jackson emphasize that social media benefits should not be dismissed, as intentional and moderated use can enhance well-being (Edwards and Jackson). A balanced perspective is essential to developing strategies that reduce risks while acknowledging potential advantages.
In addition to mental health concerns, social media use can influence teens' values, behavior, and sense of community. The content teens consume, including trends, challenges, and influencer messages, can shape their attitudes toward body image, relationships, and social norms. Positive engagement, such as following educational accounts or participating in creative projects, can foster curiosity, critical thinking, and empathy. Constant exposure to material focused on comparison or consumerism can reinforce unrealistic expectations and unhealthy habits. Families and educators play a critical role in helping teens understand online content critically, understand media literacy, and develop a balanced perspective on the digital world.
Communities and policymakers also have a role in supporting teen well-being online. Safe digital environments require more than personal responsibility; they demand structural solutions. Investments in mental health resources for schools, youth organizations, and local health agencies can provide teens with guidance and support when they encounter harmful online experiences. Policy measures, such as age-appropriate content guidelines, transparent moderation policies, and limitations on addictive platform design, can reduce exposure to harmful material. Public awareness campaigns that inform both teens and adults about healthy digital habits and mental health resources further strengthen community-level support. Combining individual, family, school, and societal strategies ensures that adolescents can enjoy the benefits of social media while minimizing the risks to their well-being.
The widespread use of social media among teens presents both opportunities and challenges. Research, public health data, and expert analysis consistently reveal a link between excessive engagement and mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The rapid evolution of social media trends complicates the issue, requiring adaptable solutions. Families, schools, and policymakers must stay informed of platform updates, emerging apps, and changes in user behavior. For instance, social norms regarding online communication, parental involvement, and academic pressure vary widely, shaping how teens interact with digital content.
Protecting teen mental health is a collective responsibility. Short-term strategies can relieve immediate pressures, while long-term approaches including school-based education, policy initiatives, and public awareness campaigns can create sustainable frameworks for well-being. Collaboration among families, educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, and tech companies is crucial to ensure that social media's benefits do not come at the expense of adolescent health. Ongoing research is needed to track trends, evaluate interventions, and develop evidence-based practices that balance engagement with well-being. By carefully examining the causes, effects, and solutions for teen mental health in the digital age, communities can act thoughtfully, implement evidence-based strategies, and foster environments where adolescents thrive both online and offline.
Ultimately, protecting mental health is not simply a personal responsibility but a societal one. Current research provides a roadmap for meaningful action. Through attention, awareness, and cooperation, it is possible to create healthier online experiences for young people, balancing engagement with well-being and ensuring that the promise of social media does not come at the expense of adolescent mental health. Adolescents deserve guidance, safe spaces, and the tools to navigate a complex digital world while maintaining emotional resilience, social skills, and overall well-being.
Works Cited
Agrawal, Devendra K. "The Impact of Social Media & Technology on Child and Adolescent Mental Health." National Library of Medicine, 13 June 2025, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12165459/
Doucleff, Michaeleen. "The Truth about Teens, Social Media and the Mental Health Crisis." NPR, 25 Apr. 2023, npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/04/25/1171773181/social-media-teens-mental-health
Edwards, Erika, and Hallie Jackson. "Social Media Is Driving Teen Mental Health Crisis, Surgeon General Warns." NBC News, 23 May 2023, nbcnews.com/health/health-news/social-media-mental-health-anxiety-depression-teens-surgeon-general-rcna85575
Faverio, Michelle, et al. "Teens, Social Media and Mental Health." Pew Research Center, 22 Apr. 2025, pewresearch.org/internet/2025/04/22/teens-social-media-and-mental-health/
Katella, Kathy. "How Social Media Affects Your Teen's Mental Health: A Parent's Guide." Yale Medicine, 14 Jul. 2024, yalemedicine.org/news/social-media-teen-mental-health-a-parents-guide
Rideout, Victoria, and Susanna Fox. "Digital Health Practices, Social Media Use, and Mental Well-Being Among Teens and Young Adults in the U.S." Providence, 20 June 2018, digitalcommons.providence.org/publications/1093/
Young, Emily MSEd, MPH, et al. "Frequent Social Media Use and Experiences with Bullying Victimization, Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness, and Suicide Risk Among High School Students - Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2023." CDC, 8 Nov. 2024, cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/su/su7304a3.htm
This is a rough draft of an 8-10 page research paper on social media and how it affects teen mental health. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Coty Johnson
Professor Ryan Jones
ENG102: Rough Draft
August 23rd, 2025
Social Media and Teen Mental Health
Teen social media use is nearly universal, and its intensity continues to grow each year. Nearly half of U.S. teens report being online almost constantly, according to Monica Anderson and colleagues at the Pew Research Center (Faverio et al.). This level of engagement raises important questions about how extensive screen time affects adolescent development. I chose to research this topic because it directly impacts my generation and has become a public health concern. Understanding the psychological effects of social media is essential for parents, educators, policymakers, and teens themselves. By exploring both the risks and potential protective strategies, we can better support adolescents in navigating the digital world. Social media has been linked to rising anxiety and depression among teens, as highlighted by Erika Edwards and Hallie Jackson, and the Surgeon General has emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue (Edwards and Jackson). Devendra Agrawal's research further confirms that frequent social media use correlates with higher rates of depression and anxiety among adolescents (Agrawal). This is not merely about technology; it is about the well-being of an entire generation.
Over the past decade, social media has become a central part of adolescent life. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube influence the way teens interact, learn, and perceive themselves. While these platforms offer benefits, including enhanced connectivity, educational resources, and opportunities for self-expression, heavy use has raised mental health concerns. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable because their brains are still developing and they are navigating identity formation, peer relationships, and social validation simultaneously. Research indicates that social comparison, cyberbullying, and exposure to unrealistic ideals contribute to mental health difficulties (Katella). Maintaining a curated online persona can provoke anxiety, while negative interactions, including online harassment, can increase stress and lower self-esteem.
The pace of social media adoption among teens has accelerated rapidly. Pew Research Center data show that the average teen spends more than seven hours a day on digital media outside of schoolwork, with nearly half online almost constantly (Faverio et al.). This rise in screen time coincides with increasing rates of depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and reduced physical activity (Rideout and Fox). The intensity and nature of social media engagement, not just its presence, are critical. Constant scrolling, comparison, and messaging can lead to emotional burnout, diminished focus, and heightened feelings of inadequacy.
Social media impacts teens' daily lives in significant ways. Persistent exposure to online content can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey links frequent social media use to higher instances of persistent sadness and hopelessness among high school students (Young et al.). Social comparison encourages teens to measure their self-worth against curated images of peers and influencers, often distorting perceptions of reality. Cyberbullying further compounds these challenges, with victims reporting feelings of isolation and insecurity. Fear of missing out is another psychological factor that drives excessive engagement. Teens often feel pressure to respond immediately to messages, maintain an online presence, and follow trends, which can disrupt sleep, reduce focus, and heighten stress. While parents and educators are increasingly aware of these risks, interventions remain limited. Time limits and encouraging digital breaks can provide short-term relief but do not address the underlying causes.
Daily experiences on social media vary widely. For some teens, logging in begins with checking notifications immediately after waking, scrolling through posts during meals, and remaining online until late at night. Platforms are designed to capture attention through likes, comments, and shares, which release dopamine and reinforce continued engagement. A positive interaction may boost self-esteem temporarily, but negative comments or lack of engagement can lead to frustration and sadness. Teens who encounter unrealistic beauty standards, highlight reels of peers, or viral challenges may feel pressure to conform, often sacrificing authenticity for online approval. These experiences illustrate that social media is not simply a tool but an environment that can shape emotions, self-perception, and behavior on a continuous basis.
Long-term repercussions of unchecked social media use are substantial. Chronic exposure to stressful online environments can disrupt emotional regulation, social development, and sleep patterns, impairing cognitive performance and overall well-being (Agrawal). Academic performance may suffer as attention spans shorten, and social skills may be underdeveloped due to reduced face-to-face interaction. Over time, these issues can create a generation more vulnerable to mental health challenges, difficulties forming healthy relationships, and reduced resilience. The implications extend beyond individuals to families, schools, and communities, making this a public health priority. Social media's influence on identity development can carry into adulthood. Adolescents who consistently equate self-worth with online approval may struggle to form confidence in real-world settings, affecting career choices, romantic relationships, and the ability to cope with stress.
Effective interventions require both immediate and long-term strategies. Short-term measures such as parental monitoring, setting screen time limits, and promoting offline activities can help mitigate immediate risks (Katella). Schools can implement mental health education programs and peer mentoring to support students in navigating online experiences. Programs that teach digital literacy can help teens identify misinformation, understand algorithm-driven content, and manage online relationships responsibly. Long-term solutions demand team efforts among tech companies, policymakers, educators, parents, and mental health professionals. Platforms should take responsibility for user well-being through stronger content moderation, transparent algorithms, and safer online environments (Edwards and Jackson). Government regulations and research-informed guidelines can support families and schools in adopting best practices. Public health campaigns may also raise awareness of social media's impact on adolescent mental health, highlighting both risks and protective behaviors.
Despite these concerns, social media is not entirely harmful. Platforms can foster connection, creativity, and access to educational resources. Teens who feel isolated can find support networks online, and those with niche interests can connect with like-minded peers. Social media can also provide opportunities for civic engagement, volunteerism, and advocacy. For example, teens may participate in environmental campaigns, social justice movements, or creative projects that encourage collaboration and skill development. Edwards and Jackson emphasize that social media benefits should not be dismissed, as intentional and moderated use can enhance well-being (Edwards and Jackson). A balanced perspective is essential to developing strategies that reduce risks while acknowledging potential advantages.
In addition to mental health concerns, social media use can influence teens' values, behavior, and sense of community. The content teens consume, including trends, challenges, and influencer messages, can shape their attitudes toward body image, relationships, and social norms. Positive engagement, such as following educational accounts or participating in creative projects, can foster curiosity, critical thinking, and empathy. Constant exposure to material focused on comparison or consumerism can reinforce unrealistic expectations and unhealthy habits. Families and educators play a critical role in helping teens understand online content critically, understand media literacy, and develop a balanced perspective on the digital world.
Communities and policymakers also have a role in supporting teen well-being online. Safe digital environments require more than personal responsibility; they demand structural solutions. Investments in mental health resources for schools, youth organizations, and local health agencies can provide teens with guidance and support when they encounter harmful online experiences. Policy measures, such as age-appropriate content guidelines, transparent moderation policies, and limitations on addictive platform design, can reduce exposure to harmful material. Public awareness campaigns that inform both teens and adults about healthy digital habits and mental health resources further strengthen community-level support. Combining individual, family, school, and societal strategies ensures that adolescents can enjoy the benefits of social media while minimizing the risks to their well-being.
The widespread use of social media among teens presents both opportunities and challenges. Research, public health data, and expert analysis consistently reveal a link between excessive engagement and mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The rapid evolution of social media trends complicates the issue, requiring adaptable solutions. Families, schools, and policymakers must stay informed of platform updates, emerging apps, and changes in user behavior. For instance, social norms regarding online communication, parental involvement, and academic pressure vary widely, shaping how teens interact with digital content.
Protecting teen mental health is a collective responsibility. Short-term strategies can relieve immediate pressures, while long-term approaches including school-based education, policy initiatives, and public awareness campaigns can create sustainable frameworks for well-being. Collaboration among families, educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, and tech companies is crucial to ensure that social media's benefits do not come at the expense of adolescent health. Ongoing research is needed to track trends, evaluate interventions, and develop evidence-based practices that balance engagement with well-being. By carefully examining the causes, effects, and solutions for teen mental health in the digital age, communities can act thoughtfully, implement evidence-based strategies, and foster environments where adolescents thrive both online and offline.
Ultimately, protecting mental health is not simply a personal responsibility but a societal one. Current research provides a roadmap for meaningful action. Through attention, awareness, and cooperation, it is possible to create healthier online experiences for young people, balancing engagement with well-being and ensuring that the promise of social media does not come at the expense of adolescent mental health. Adolescents deserve guidance, safe spaces, and the tools to navigate a complex digital world while maintaining emotional resilience, social skills, and overall well-being.
Works Cited
Agrawal, Devendra K. "The Impact of Social Media & Technology on Child and Adolescent Mental Health." National Library of Medicine, 13 June 2025, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12165459/
Doucleff, Michaeleen. "The Truth about Teens, Social Media and the Mental Health Crisis." NPR, 25 Apr. 2023, npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/04/25/1171773181/social-media-teens-mental-health
Edwards, Erika, and Hallie Jackson. "Social Media Is Driving Teen Mental Health Crisis, Surgeon General Warns." NBC News, 23 May 2023, nbcnews.com/health/health-news/social-media-mental-health-anxiety-depression-teens-surgeon-general-rcna85575
Faverio, Michelle, et al. "Teens, Social Media and Mental Health." Pew Research Center, 22 Apr. 2025, pewresearch.org/internet/2025/04/22/teens-social-media-and-mental-health/
Katella, Kathy. "How Social Media Affects Your Teen's Mental Health: A Parent's Guide." Yale Medicine, 14 Jul. 2024, yalemedicine.org/news/social-media-teen-mental-health-a-parents-guide
Rideout, Victoria, and Susanna Fox. "Digital Health Practices, Social Media Use, and Mental Well-Being Among Teens and Young Adults in the U.S." Providence, 20 June 2018, digitalcommons.providence.org/publications/1093/
Young, Emily MSEd, MPH, et al. "Frequent Social Media Use and Experiences with Bullying Victimization, Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness, and Suicide Risk Among High School Students - Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2023." CDC, 8 Nov. 2024, cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/su/su7304a3.htm
