How Social Media Affects Children's Anxiety
Social media can cause significant mental health issues in young people, including comparison to others and constant notifications that distract from real life.
“When the outcome is unpredictable, the behavior is more likely to repeat,”
said Jacqueline Sperling, PhD, from McLean Hospital, describing social media’s addictive nature. This can be compared to a slot machine, where the unpredictability of the outcome keeps players engaged. A similar issue arises when children see others’ "highlight reels" online, showcasing vacations, parties, and other fun events, leading to comparison issues.
Author's summary: Social media affects children's mental health.