The Impact of Social Media Use on Teens’ Health: A Literature Review
Abstract
This literature review examines the multifaceted impact of social media on adolescents’ health, focusing on physical and psychological domains. Drawing from 36 peer-reviewed studies (2015–2025), the analysis reveals that excessive social media use is associated with sleep disruption (e.g., poor quality, reduced duration, and procrastination), sedentary behavior, and physical health complaints (e.g., headaches, neck pain). Psychologically, it correlates with heightened anxiety, depression, body image issues, and addictive behaviors, exacerbated by cyberbullying and Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). However, social media also offers benefits, such as social connectivity and educational resources. The review highlights interventions like digital wellness education, parental guidance, and policy measures to mitigate harms while preserving benefits. Limitations include cultural biases and rapidly evolving platforms, underscoring the need for cross-cultural and longitudinal research.
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