Social media use, overuse, addiction, mental health, emotion regulation, adolescents
Abstract
Social media is a significant aspect of adolescents’ lives, providing both benefits and obstacles for their mental well-being. This article investigates the twofold effect of social media on the mental health of adolescents, emphasizing its ability to promote beneficial outcomes like social support, self-expression, and emotional control, alongside its adverse effects, such as addiction, vulnerability to cyberbullying, and encountering misinformation. Although much research has been conducted on the advantages and disadvantages of social media, gaps remain in understanding the conditions that lead to harmful outcomes. By reviewing recent literature, this article aims to present an objective perspective on the impact of social media on the mental health of adolescents, considering both its benefits and risks. Through this analysis, the paper seeks to inform educators, parents, and policymakers on how to support healthier social media use among young people, promoting positive experiences while mitigating negative influences. The study concludes with recommendations for targeted interventions and the development of guidelines to protect the well-being of adolescents in the age digital technology.
