Do Social Media and Smartphones Really Threaten the Mental Health of Young People?
In an article published in Nature magazine and written by Helen Pearson, the effects of smartphones and social media on the mental health of young people are comprehensively examined in light of scientific data. Psychologist Jonathan Haidt’s bestselling book The Anxious Generation directly links the rise in anxiety, depression, and social isolation among young people to screen addiction and social media use. Haidt argues that intense social media use—especially among adolescent girls—triggers anxiety and depression. According to him, these digital habits disrupt the natural course of childhood, replacing healthy social interactions with superficial online relationships.
However, there are also scientists who oppose Haidt’s thesis. Candice Odgers from the University of California states that most research shows only very weak and limited effects of social media use on adolescents’ mental health. Some studies have found that young people form friendships through social media, receive support, and develop a sense of social belonging. In particular, marginalized groups may use social media as a tool for self-expression.
Research reveals that the effects of social media vary depending on individual characteristics, age, content, and environmental factors. For parents, the recommended approach is not to focus solely on screen time, but to assess whether their children are getting enough sleep, engaging in physical activity, and building healthy social relationships. Experts emphasize that a strong parent-child relationship, open communication, and flexible media plans are more effective in supporting mental health.
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