Social media, often criticized for its detrimental effects on teenagers’ mental health, can offer significant, positive benefits as well, according to new research. A recent study by the Pew Research Center highlights that while platforms like Instagram and Snapchat have frequently been associated with behaviors that harm self-esteem and encourage cyberbullying, many teens also experience meaningful advantages from their social media interactions.
The Pew study found that 74% of American teenagers report that social media enhances their feelings of connectedness with friends, while 63% consider it a valuable avenue for creative self-expression. These findings arrive amid a backdrop of government attempts to introduce legislation aimed at protecting young people online, raising important questions about the actual, multifaceted impact of social platforms on adolescents’ lives.
One reason behind the positive findings could be that many teens feel able to express themselves more openly online than they might feel comfortable doing at home or school. Another report, conducted by the Trevor Project, pointed out that for LGBTQ youth of color, certain platforms confer a sense of safety and acceptance. Among these young people, 53% reported feeling particularly safe and understood on TikTok, with notable percentages also finding supportive communities on Discord (43%) and Instagram (41%). Crucially, those who felt secure in online spaces had a 20% lower likelihood of attempting suicide compared to those without such digital support networks.
Additionally, the Pew research showed that social media is an increasingly important resource for teenagers seeking mental health information. The survey revealed that 34% of teens sometimes obtain mental health advice through such platforms, and 63% consider social media to be a primary channel for accessing this information. While the study does not specify if the advice teens encounter online always proves accurate or beneficial, this data emphasizes the role these platforms could play, especially given that only about half of teens feel highly comfortable discussing their mental health concerns directly with parents.
However, the study also identified persistent issues arising from social media use. Teens readily acknowledge drawbacks, especially around disruptions to sleep and productivity. In fact, 45% said social media negatively affects their sleep, and about 40% stated it interferes with their productivity. Interestingly, though nearly half (48%) believe social media harms other teenagers, just 14% perceive themselves personally experiencing these negative effects.
These insights illustrate the complex relationship that teens maintain with social media, suggesting the reality is far more nuanced than prevailing narratives of harm suggest. As policymakers and parents navigate challenges posed by these digital environments, understanding the full landscape—including the beneficial aspects—is essential.
