Augmented youth: Prevalence and predictors of AR filter use on social media among adolescents

This study explored adolescents’ active and passive use of augmented reality (AR) filters on social media, focusing on three main aspects: (1) the types and frequency of AR filters used, (2) the application targets of these filters and the closeness of the sources, and (3) the developmental, dispositional, and social predictors of such use. A cross-sectional survey ( N = 797 Dutch adolescents aged 12 to 18) revealed that the majority of the adolescents used AR filters both actively and passively, although their usage is infrequent. Adolescents tended to use filters featuring textual overlays and fantasy transformations more frequently, both actively and passively. Adolescents most often received photos and video clips with AR filters from close contacts. The frequency of active AR filter use was higher among adolescents with greater fear of missing out (FoMO) and those with a larger number of friends who used AR filters, while it was lower among boys and adolescents with higher agreeableness. Higher sensation seeking and FoMO, along with having more friends who used AR filters, were associated with more frequent passive use. These findings provide initial insights into adolescents’ use of AR filters, setting the stage for a better understanding of the individual differences in this behavior. • Most adolescents have used AR filters on social media both actively and passively, although infrequently. • Adolescent girls are more likely than boys to actively use AR filters. • Lower agreeableness is associated with higher active use of AR filters. • Higher level of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and descriptive peer norms are correlated with more frequent active use. • Increased sensation seeking, FoMO, and descriptive peer norms lead to more frequent passive use.