Social Media use is Associated with, but is not a Major Cause of Mental Disorder among Adolescents

Purpose of Review We evaluate the contemporary societal belief that social media use causes mental health problems among adolescents, such as depressive and eating disorders, and suicide. We alternatively raise the more likely scenario that poor mental health is what can drive social media use/overuse. Recent Findings We summarize empirical evidence from longitudinal studies on relations between social media use/overuse and mental health among adolescents, demonstrating mixed findings and important methodological limitations that preclude our ability to state that social media use is a major cause of mental disorder. Nonetheless, we discuss the need for government regulation of social media companies, given that these companies have purposefully promoted excessive social media use in adolescents, and have inadequately protected against violent content and misinformation on their platforms. Summary Social media use/overuse is not likely a major cause of mental disorder, but can nonetheless result in other harms.