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Chapter

The Impact of Social Media

on Adolescent Mental Health
Milton Anguyo, Joel Masete, Magdalen Akia and Henry Drasiku

Abstract

This chapter delves into the profound impact of social media on the mental well-
being of twenty first-century adolescents. It intricately explores the extensive
engagement of young individuals with various social media platforms and critically
analyses its potential implications for their psychological health. The discussion
encompasses a spectrum of dimensions, including the alarming prevalence of
cyberbullying, the detrimental influence of distorted body image perceptions, the
pervasive fear of missing out (FOMO), and the concerning addictive tendencies
associated with social media usage. Furthermore, the chapter sheds light on the opti-
mistic side of social media, elucidating its capacity to foster online support communi-
ties and spearhead campaigns promoting mental health awareness. Ultimately, this
exploration culminates in a strategic roadmap designed to cultivate a balanced and
constructive relationship with social media. The outlined strategies aim to empower
adolescents with the tools necessary to harness the benefits of these platforms while
proactively mitigating the potential adverse consequences discussed earlier. By
adopting these strategies, individuals, caregivers, educators, and policymakers collec-
tively strive to cultivate a digital environment that safeguards and enhances the
mental well-being of our future generations.

Keywords: social media, adolescent mental health, cyberbullying, mental health

awareness, online support

1. Introduction

Adolescence often referred to as the pivotal bridge between childhood and adult-
hood, stands as a remarkably transformative developmental phase. This period is
characterized by multifaceted changes, encompassing the emergence of self-identity,
the cultivation of intricate social interactions, and the profound expansion of emo-
tional horizons. It serves as a dynamic canvas upon which individuals experiment
with their self-concept, establish connections with peers, and embark on the journey
of self-discovery.
In recent times, the emergence of social media platforms has indelibly altered the
landscape within which adolescents navigate these critical transitions. Social media,
with its expansive virtual realms, has ushered in unprecedented ways of
communication and interaction, dramatically altering the dynamics of relationships

1
Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the 21st Century

and self-presentation. The digital age has witnessed an exponential surge in the use of
platforms that enable instant sharing, engagement, and networking, providing ado-
lescents with a potent toolkit to express themselves, connect with peers, and explore
the intricacies of the world around them.
Within this context, this chapter embarks on an exploration of the intricate inter-
play between social media use and the mental well-being of adolescents. As these
platforms become integral components of adolescents’ lives, they wield the power to
shape self-perceptions, amplify social connections, and leave an indelible imprint on
emotional experiences. Our examination delves into both the positive and negative
dimensions of this interconnection, aiming to present a comprehensive view that
encapsulates the nuances of this relationship.
From the vantage point of understanding the multifaceted impacts, we delve into
the ways in which social media’s influence extends to various facets of adolescent
mental health. We unravel how these platforms have the potential to engender posi-
tive effects like fostering mental health awareness and nurturing supportive virtual
communities. Simultaneously, we confront the darker aspects, ranging from the per-
nicious repercussions of cyberbullying to the haunting specter of FOMO, all of which
can cast long shadows over the fragile mental landscapes of adolescents.
Through an exploration of these dichotomies, we aspire to equip readers with a
holistic understanding of the intricate interplay between social media and adolescent
mental health. This inquiry calls us to re-evaluate our perspectives, prompting us to
proactively harness the transformative potential of these digital realms while also
devising strategies to safeguard the emotional and psychological well-being of the
young minds that traverse them. In navigating this complex terrain, we aim to
empower stakeholders—ranging from adolescents themselves to educators, parents,
and policymakers—to embark on a collective journey toward nurturing a digital
landscape that fosters resilience, empowerment, and holistic mental health.

2. The influence of social media on adolescent mental health

Social media platforms have become integral to the lives of adolescents, shaping
their self-perception, interpersonal relationships, and psychological well-being.

2.1 Cyberbullying and its impact

The rise of cyberbullying in the digital age has emerged as a significant and
distressing concern for the mental health of adolescents. This section delves into the
various forms of cyberbullying, its prevalence, and the profound emotional toll it
takes on young individuals.
Cyberbullying encompasses a range of aggressive behaviors that are conducted
through electronic communication platforms such as social media, text messages, and
online forums. These behaviors include hurtful comments, derogatory messages,
sharing private information without consent, and even threats of harm. With the
anonymity provided by the online world, aggressors are often emboldened to engage
in harmful actions that they might not consider in face-to-face interactions. According
to a study conducted by Hinduja and Patchin [1], approximately 34% of adolescents
have reported being victims of cyberbullying [1]. Oliveira et al. [2] examined the
correlation between screen time activities and bullying among Brazilian adolescents
2
The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1003060

and found out that higher social media use is associated with a greater likelihood of
bullying victimization, particularly among males.
The emotional consequences of cyberbullying are profound and far-reaching.
Victims of cyberbullying often experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and
depression. They are subjected to a continuous barrage of hurtful messages and
attacks, making it difficult for them to escape the torment even in the confines of their
own homes. The emotional distress can spill over into their physical well-being,
leading to disrupted sleep patterns, loss of appetite, and even psychosomatic
symptoms. Importantly, bystanders who witness cyberbullying are also impacted
emotionally, experiencing feelings of guilt, helplessness, and discomfort as they
witness the suffering of their peers [1].
Addressing the menace of cyberbullying requires a multifaceted approach.
Schools, parents, and policymakers must collaborate to implement stringent anti-
bullying measures, educate adolescents about responsible online behavior, and create
safe reporting mechanisms for victims. Additionally, fostering empathy and digital
citizenship among adolescents can help cultivate a culture of respect and kindness in
the digital sphere. By acknowledging and addressing the detrimental impact of
cyberbullying on adolescent mental health, society can take a decisive step toward
nurturing a supportive and safe digital environment.

2.2 Body image concerns and social media

The advent of social media platforms has ushered in an era of unprecedented visual
exposure, which has in turn significantly influenced body image perceptions among
adolescents. This subsection delves into the intricate connection between pervasive
social media imagery and the alarming rise of body image dissatisfaction among young
individuals.
Social media platforms are flooded with images that project idealized and often
unrealistic body standards. Adolescents are bombarded with pictures of perfectly
sculpted bodies, flawless skin, and curated appearances that propagate a narrow
definition of beauty. This relentless exposure cultivates an environment where young
individuals internalize these unrealistic standards, leading to heightened body dissat-
isfaction and a skewed self-perception. A study by Cao et al. [3] highlights the role of
unrealistic beauty ideals portrayed on social media platforms and their negative
impact on adolescents’ self-perception and psychological well-being. Another study
by Fardouly et al. [4] underscores this phenomenon, indicating that exposure to
images of thin and idealized bodies on social media is associated with increased body
dissatisfaction and an elevated likelihood of engaging in unhealthy weight control
behaviors.
The impact of these skewed body image perceptions on mental health is substan-
tial. Adolescents who internalize these unrealistic beauty ideals are at a higher risk of
developing body dimorphic tendencies, low self-esteem, and symptoms of depression
and anxiety. The constant comparison to the “perfect” bodies portrayed on social
media fosters negative self-comparisons and fuels feelings of inadequacy. Moreover,
the pressure to conform to these standards can lead to extreme behaviors such as crash
dieting, excessive exercise, and even the development of eating disorders.
Counteracting the detrimental effects of social media on body image requires a
concerted effort from various stakeholders. Promoting media literacy among adoles-
cents can empower them to critically analyze and deconstruct the images they
encounter. Encouraging body positivity and self-acceptance can help adolescents
3
Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the 21st Century

develop a healthier relationship with their bodies and reject unrealistic beauty ideals.
Moreover, fostering open conversations about body image within families, schools,
and communities can contribute to dismantling harmful stereotypes and promoting a
culture of self-love and acceptance.

2.3 Fear of missing out (FOMO)

The pervasive nature of social media platforms has given rise to a unique phe-
nomenon known as the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), which contributes significantly
to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety among adolescents. This section delves into the
intricacies of FOMO, its implications for mental health, and strategies to mitigate its
impact.
FOMO is driven by the incessant updates and posts on social media platforms that
showcase peers’ activities, experiences, and social interactions. Adolescents experience
a gnawing fear of being excluded from the events and moments that others seem to be
enjoying. The constant stream of images depicting social gatherings, outings, and
adventures can make adolescents feel left out and disconnected. A study done in China
investigated the relationship between cyber victimization, non-suicidal self-injury,
depression, and school connectedness among Chinese adolescents. The Finding was that
cyber victimization was positively associated with non-suicidal self-injury, mediated by
depression, and this link is stronger for adolescents with low school connectedness. [5].
Another study by Przybylski et al. [6] highlights the correlation between FOMO and
lower life satisfaction, as well as mood disturbances among adolescents [6].
The implications of FOMO on adolescent mental health are far-reaching. The fear
of being excluded can evoke feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, and sadness. Adoles-
cents may perceive their own lives as mundane in comparison to the seemingly
exciting experiences showcased on social media. This perception can undermine their
self-esteem and lead to a heightened sense of social isolation. Moreover, the constant
comparison to the curated lives of peers can contribute to a distorted self-perception
and a constant sense of dissatisfaction.
To mitigate the impact of FOMO, adolescents and those who support them can
adopt strategies that foster healthy digital habits. Encouraging adolescents to set limits
on their social media use, practice mindfulness, and engage in offline activities that
bring joy can help reduce the grip of FOMO. Additionally, educators and parents can
promote open discussions about the curated nature of social media and the impor-
tance of valuing real-life experiences over virtual ones. By cultivating self-awareness
and resilience, adolescents can navigate the digital landscape with a healthier per-
spective, minimizing the detrimental effects of FOMO on their mental well-being.

2.4 Addiction and mental health

The rise of social media addiction has sparked concerns about its impact on ado-
lescent mental health. This section explores the signs, causes, and consequences of
excessive social media use on psychological well-being, shedding light on the potential
risks and avenues for intervention.
The allure of social media lies in the instantaneous gratification it offers through
notifications, likes, and comments. This constant feedback triggers dopamine responses
in the brain, creating a reward loop that fosters addictive behaviors. Adolescents find
themselves increasingly drawn to their devices, seeking validation and affirmation
through the digital realm. A study by Kuss and Griffiths [7] suggests that addictive social
4
The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1003060

media use is linked to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness
among adolescents [7] meanwhile [8] carried a study on this similar topic and found out
that evidence supports social contagion in gun violence, bullying, cyberbullying, violent
offending, and suicide. They therefore argued that social learning, identification with
significant others, and the normalization of specific norms play a role.
The consequences of social media addiction on mental health are concerning. Exces-
sive social media use can lead to a neglect of real-world relationships, hinder academic
performance, and exacerbate feelings of social isolation. The constant need for valida-
tion in the form of likes and comments can create a sense of emptiness and dissatisfac-
tion when these expectations are not met. Moreover, the addictive cycle can disrupt
sleep patterns, impact concentration, and contribute to heightened stress levels.
Addressing social media addiction requires a comprehensive approach that
involves education, awareness, and moderation. Adolescents, along with their families
and educators, can benefit from understanding the signs of addiction and the impor-
tance of setting healthy boundaries. Encouraging digital detoxes, where individuals
disconnect from screens periodically, can help break the addictive cycle. Promoting
face-to-face interactions, engaging in hobbies, and fostering a balanced lifestyle can
redirect adolescents’ focus away from the virtual world and toward nurturing their
mental and emotional well-being.

2.5 Positive aspects: mental health awareness and online support

Contrary to its negative reputation, social media platforms can play a constructive
role in addressing adolescent mental health challenges. This section highlights the
positive potential of social media by examining the impact of online support commu-
nities and mental health awareness campaigns.
Online support communities provide a virtual refuge for adolescents grappling with
mental health issues. These digital spaces offer a sense of belonging, where individuals
can share their experiences, fears, and triumphs without fear of judgment. The study by
Tu et al. [9] examined the positive aspects of social media in promoting mental health
awareness and providing online support communities also Vannucci and Ohannessian
[10] demonstrated that online peer support can significantly reduce symptoms of
depression in adolescents, providing them with a valuable avenue for seeking advice
and validation. Moreover, the anonymity offered by these communities can create a
safe space for adolescents who may feel hesitant to open up in traditional face-to-face
settings. Cao et al. [3] also explored the impact of childhood trauma on adolescent
cyberbullying, mediated by emotional intelligence and online social anxiety. Concludes
that childhood trauma is positively associated with cyberbullying, and emotional intel-
ligence and online social anxiety play mediating roles.
Social media also serves as a powerful platform for mental health awareness cam-
paigns. Advocacy groups, organizations, and individuals leverage the reach of social
media to challenge stigma and spread knowledge about mental health. By sharing
personal stories, testimonials, and informational content, social media fosters open
conversations that normalize discussions about mental health. Adolescents can access
resources, information about available support, and learn coping strategies from
experts and peers alike. This proactive approach can contribute to early intervention
and destigmatization of mental health challenges.
To harness the positive potential of social media for mental health, adolescents
and those who support them must actively engage in fostering a supportive digital
community. Educators can incorporate digital citizenship education into curricula,
5
Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the 21st Century

guiding students on ethical and responsible online behavior. Parents can stay
informed about the platforms their children use and promote open conversations
about online experiences. Mental health professionals can leverage social media to
share evidence-based strategies for coping and seeking help. By recognizing social
media’s potential as a force for good, society can create a virtual ecosystem that
nurtures adolescent mental health and encourages mutual support.
In conclusion, social media’s influence on adolescent mental health is a complex
and multifaceted issue. From the detrimental impact of cyberbullying and body image
concerns to the challenges posed by FOMO and addiction, adolescents face a range of
pressures and risks in the digital realm. However, the positive potential of social media
should not be underestimated. Online support communities and mental health aware-
ness campaigns showcase the platform’s capacity to foster understanding, empathy,
and empowerment. By cultivating responsible online behaviors, promoting media
literacy, and embracing the power of digital connectivity for positive change, society
can pave the way for a healthier digital landscape that supports the mental well-being
of adolescents in the 21st century.

3. Strategies for healthy social media use

To navigate the intricate landscape of social media, adolescents need guidance and
strategies for healthy usage.

3.1 Digital literacy and media literacy education

Empowering adolescents with digital literacy skills is crucial in enabling them to

navigate the complex landscape of social media responsibly. Digital literacy equips
adolescents with the ability to critically evaluate online content, discern credible infor-
mation from misinformation, and understand the implications of their online actions.
Media literacy education provides them with the tools to recognize biased narratives,
identify fake news, and engage with social media content in a discerning manner.
Incorporating digital and media literacy education into school curricula can equip
adolescents with the skills they need to engage critically with the content they
encounter. This education helps them understand the motives behind viral trends,
recognize the potential for manipulation, and make informed decisions about what to
engage with and share. Research by Livingstone and Sefton-Green [11] emphasizes
the importance of media literacy education in promoting responsible and ethical
online behavior among adolescents [11].

3.2 Setting healthy boundaries

Encouraging adolescents to establish healthy boundaries with social media is

essential to prevent excessive usage and its associated negative effects. Adolescents
can benefit from setting time limits for their social media interactions, designating
device-free zones and times (such as during meals or before bedtime), and scheduling
regular digital detoxes. By setting these boundaries, adolescents can strike a healthier
balance between their online and offline lives. Cao et al. [3] in their study carried out
from four schools in Shandong province, China emphasized the need to establish
healthy boundaries for screen time and suggested strategies such as limiting device use
and digital detoxes [3].
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The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1003060

Research by Primack et al. [12] suggests that setting limits on social media
use is associated with improved psychological well-being and reduced
symptoms of depression and anxiety among adolescents. Educators and parents
can play a pivotal role in modeling and encouraging these healthy digital habits,
helping adolescents develop healthier relationships with their devices and social media
platforms.

3.3 Promoting positive online communities

Creating and nurturing positive online communities focused on mental health

discussions can provide adolescents with a supportive and safe space to share their
experiences and seek advice. Educators, parents, and policymakers can collaborate to
establish and oversee these communities, ensuring that they are moderated and free
from harmful content.
Online platforms that promote mental health awareness and provide evidence-
based resources can play a crucial role in supporting adolescents’ well-being. These
platforms can provide accurate information, coping strategies, and resources for
seeking help. Research by Moreno et al. [13] suggests that online interventions can
effectively promote mental health literacy and awareness among adolescents, a similar
idea was also echoed by Tu et al. [9].
By fostering a culture of empathy, mutual support, and open dialog within these
communities, adolescents can find comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their
struggles. Furthermore, these communities can contribute to reducing the stigma
associated with mental health challenges and promoting a culture of acceptance and
understanding.

4. Conclusions

This chapter has delved into the intricate relationship between social media and
adolescent mental health, revealing both positive and negative impacts. While social
media offers unprecedented connectivity, it also poses risks like cyberbullying, body
image concerns, FOMO, and addiction. Yet, it is important to note that social media is
not solely detrimental; it can foster online support communities and mental health
awareness.
To navigate this landscape, digital literacy is crucial for discerning reliable infor-
mation from misinformation. Encouraging healthy boundaries, both in screen time
and emotional investment, promotes balance. Positive online communities can pro-
vide safe spaces for mental health discussions.
In essence, social media’s influence on adolescents is multifaceted. By
understanding its dynamics and utilizing strategies for responsible use, we can
promote both healthy digital engagement and mental well-being. Through collective
efforts, adolescents can thrive in the digital age with resilience and positive mental
health outcomes.

Acknowledgements

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the development
of this chapter on the impact of social media on adolescent mental health. Our
7
Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the 21st Century

appreciation goes to our families, including our wives and children, for their
unwavering support and understanding throughout this endeavor. Your patience and
encouragement have been invaluable.
We would also like to express our sincere thanks to the faculty and staff of Gulu
University and Kampala International University for providing us with a conducive
environment for research and learning.
Our heartfelt thanks go to the reviewers who provided insightful feedback and
suggestions, which greatly enhanced the quality of this chapter

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Notes/thanks/other declarations

We want to express our deep gratitude to the individuals who shared their stories
and experiences related to social media and adolescent mental health. Your willing-
ness to open up and discuss these important topics contributed immensely to the
authenticity and relevance of this chapter.
Additionally, we extend our appreciation to our colleagues and friends who
engaged in thoughtful discussions and provided valuable insights that enriched our
perspective on this subject.
Lastly, our sincere thanks to the editorial team and publisher for their guidance
and support throughout the publication process. Your dedication to the dissemination
of knowledge is greatly appreciated.
This chapter would not have been possible without the collective effort of all those
mentioned above. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey.

Appendix A: resources for healthy social media use

This appendix provides a curated list of online resources, websites, and tools that
offer guidance and support for adolescents and their caregivers on navigating social
media in a healthy and responsible manner. The resources cover a range of topics,
including digital literacy, mental health awareness, and strategies for setting healthy
boundaries with social media.

1. Digital Literacy Resources

• [Digital Literacy Institute] (https://www.digitalliteracyinstitute.org/):

Offers free online courses and tutorials on developing digital literacy skills,
including evaluating online information and media critically.

• [FactCheck.org] (https://www.factcheck.org/): A non-profit organization

that provides resources for fact-checking and verifying online information.

2. Mental Health Awareness Platforms

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The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1003060

• [NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness] (https://www.nami.org/):

A leading organization dedicated to raising awareness about mental health,
providing resources for adolescents and caregivers.

• [Psych Central Forums] (https://forums.psychcentral.com/): An online

community where individuals can discuss mental health challenges, seek
advice, and share personal experiences.

3. Guides for Setting Healthy Boundaries

• [Screen Time Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics]

(https://www.healthychildren.org/English/media/Pages/default.aspx):
Offers guidelines and recommendations for managing screen time for
children and adolescents.

• [Center for Humane Technology] (https://www.humanetech.com/):

Provides tools and resources for fostering healthier relationships with
technology, including tips for digital detoxes.

Appendix B: case studies

This appendix presents in-depth case studies that delve into real-life scenarios
illustrating the concepts discussed in the chapter. Each case study offers a nuanced
exploration of the relationship between social media and adolescent mental
health, providing readers with practical examples and insights to enhance their
understanding.
Case study 1: Addressing cyberbullying
Background:
Emily, a 16-year-old high school student, found herself increasingly targeted by
hurtful comments and malicious rumors on social media platforms. Struggling with
the emotional toll of cyberbullying, Emily’s self-esteem began to plummet, affecting
her overall mental well-being.
Analysis:
This case study delves into the various forms of cyberbullying Emily experienced,
such as derogatory comments, exclusion from online groups, and the spreading of
false information. The emotional impact on Emily’s mental health is examined,
including feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. We explore how Emily’s
support network, including friends, family, and school counselors, played a vital role
in providing emotional support and strategies for coping with the negative effects of
cyberbullying.
Strategies:
The case study highlights the importance of open communication between adoles-
cents and their support systems. We discuss how Emily’s school implemented anti-
bullying policies and educated students about responsible online behavior. Additionally,
we explore the role of digital literacy in recognizing and addressing cyberbullying, as
well as providing resources for seeking help and reporting online harassment.
This case study provides a real-life scenario of cyberbullying and offering strate-
gies for support and coping, it was supported by a study done by [14].
9
Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the 21st Century

Case study 2: Overcoming fear of missing out (FOMO)

Background:
Alex, a 17-year-old aspiring artist, frequently found himself comparing his life to
the curated and seemingly perfect lives of his peers on social media. This led to
feelings of inadequacy and anxiety as he constantly feared missing out on experiences
others appeared to be enjoying.
Analysis:
In this case study, we delve into Alex’s struggle with the fear of missing out
(FOMO) and how it impacted his mental well-being. We explore the psychology
behind FOMO, discussing the role of social comparison and the illusion of idealized
lives on social media. The emotional toll of constant comparison and anxiety is exam-
ined, along with its potential to contribute to stress and self-esteem issues.
Strategies:
The case study focuses on strategies Alex and his support network employed to
mitigate the effects of FOMO. We discuss the importance of setting healthy bound-
aries for social media use, including designated “offline” times and practicing mind-
fulness techniques. Furthermore, we explore how fostering a strong sense of identity,
self-worth, and appreciation for offline experiences helped Alex build resilience
against the negative impact of FOMO. These strategies were similar to the ones
provided in the study by [15] and they found out that controlling for emotional
symptoms and other victimization led to a reduction in the effect.

Author details

Milton Anguyo1*, Joel Masete1, Magdalen Akia2 and Henry Drasiku3

1 Gulu University, Uganda

2 Yumbe Hospital, Uganda

3 Kampala International University, Uganda

*Address all correspondence to: [email protected]

© 2023 The Author(s). Licensee IntechOpen. This chapter is distributed under the terms of
the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0),
which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided
the original work is properly cited.
10
The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1003060

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