Social Media Use Fuels Depression in Preteens: A Longitudinal Study
2025-06-11
A three-year longitudinal study of nearly 12,000 children aged 9-10 reveals a significant link between increased social media use and worsening depressive symptoms in preteens. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, shows that increased social media use leads to increased depressive symptoms, not the other way around. On average, children's daily social media use rose from 7 to 73 minutes over three years, coinciding with a 35% increase in depressive symptoms. Researchers point to cyberbullying and sleep disruption as potential contributing factors. The study highlights the importance of fostering healthy digital habits, suggesting open conversations between parents and children and establishing screen-free times.