Adolescent mental health is a major concern. This study analysed secondary data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study (MCS), no primary data were collected by the author, to investigate associations between daily social media use and psychological outcomes among 10,270 adolescents. Mental health was assessed via the parent-report Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), capturing internalising and externalising behavioural problems. Multiple linear regression analyses accounted for survey sampling weights and were adjusted for demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioural factors. Results showed a U-shaped association: externalising problems increased with heavy use (≥2 hours/day), while internalising problems were highest among low users, especially non-users. The findings indicate a nuanced relationship between social media use and adolescent mental health, thereby underscoring the need for moderated usage. Moderate use may protect against internalising difficulties, while excessive use appears linked primarily to externalising problems. Policies promoting balanced use mitigate behavioural problems and support healthier engagement.
Emmines et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
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