Summary:
A six-year study conducted by researchers at NTNU has found that increased use of social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok does not lead to higher rates of anxiety and depression among young people. The Trondheim Early Secure Study followed 800 children from age 10 to 16 and found that symptoms of mental health issues remained stable regardless of social media habits. While some vulnerable groups may still be affected negatively, social media also offers positive aspects such as social support. The study aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of the impact of social media on mental health.
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Summary: Increased Use of Social Media Not Linked to Anxiety or Depression in Young People
Key Facts
- The Trondheim Early Secure Study followed 800 children over six years and found no strong correlation between increased use of social media and heightened symptoms of anxiety or depression.
- Previous research from the same group indicates that about 5% of young people in Norway experience depression, and one in ten meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder between ages 4 and 14.
- Social media can serve as a platform for social support and community, potentially safeguarding against loneliness, particularly for young people with fewer friends.
Study Finds No Correlation Between Social Media Use and Mental Health Issues
Contrary to popular belief, a six-year study reveals that increased use of social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok does not lead to higher rates of anxiety and depression among young people. The Trondheim Early Secure Study followed 800 children from age 10 to 16 and found that symptoms of mental health issues remained stable irrespective of social media habits. The research suggests that while some vulnerable groups may still be affected negatively, social media also offers positive aspects like social support. The study aims to bring a nuanced understanding to the hotly debated issue.
Understanding the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Many children and young adults spend a lot of time on social media, much to the concern of their parents and guardians. Researchers at NTNU have now taken a closer look at the impact of using social media such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok on young people’s mental health. The Trondheim Early Secure Study followed 800 children in Trondheim over six years to look for correlations between the use of social media and the development of symptoms of mental illness. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were identified through diagnostic interviews with both the children and their parents.
Weak Correlations Found in Previous Studies
A number of studies have been conducted in recent years looking at the correlation between the use of social media on the part of children and young people and their mental health. Some studies have found that the use of social media promotes mental health, while others find that it has a negative impact. But the majority of the correlations are weak. The current study aimed to provide a more detailed and nuanced picture of the correlations by following the same individuals over a number of years and collecting data through in-depth interviews.
Social Support and Positive Aspects of Social Media
The study found that increased use of social media did not lead to more symptoms of anxiety and depression. It was also not the case that those who developed more symptoms of anxiety and depression over time changed their social media habits. Previous studies conducted by the same research group show that around five percent of young people in Norway experience depression, and one in ten children meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder at least once between the ages of four and 14. However, social media can serve as a platform for social support and help protect against loneliness for young people with fewer friends.
Future Research and Considerations
The Trondheim Early Secure Study will continue to examine the impact of different experiences on social media, such as cyberbullying and posting nude pictures, on young people’s development and ability to function in society. The study aims to identify vulnerable individuals and gain more knowledge about how social media affects young people’s development. While social media can have negative experiences such as addiction and exclusion, it also provides a venue for community and belonging, making it easy to stay in touch with friends and family.
Personal Opinion as a Psychiatrist
As a psychiatrist, it is important to consider the findings of this study in the context of individual vulnerabilities and experiences. While the research shows that increased use of social media does not necessarily lead to higher rates of anxiety and depression, it is crucial to identify and address the negative experiences or impacts that some young people may have on social media. Additionally, it is important to recognize the positive aspects of social media, such as social support and community, which can benefit young people, particularly those with fewer friends. Overall, a comprehensive understanding of the impact of social media on mental health requires continued research and consideration of individual experiences and vulnerabilities.
Dr Sophia Johnson, MD, Cure of Mind