Author(s) :

Tallulah Echtenkamp.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This paper analyzes 32 reviews of the impact of social media use on adolescent mental health in order to identify global trends as well as gaps in the field. 15 of the reviews analyzed found a negative effect on adolescent mental health and 15 reviews found mixed results. Only two reviews focused on positive effects, such as a sense of belonging and inclusion. Negative impact on sleep quality emerged as a primary effect of social media use, with 8 out of 32 reviews identifying this as a consequence. Several limitations of current research in the field were identified, including confounding factors and over-reliance on self reporting for measuring impacts. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies in order to strengthen claims about positive and negative effects of social media on mental health. Additionally, further research should determine methods other than self reporting in order to collect more accurate data.