Experts urge parents to monitor teens’ social media use after Meta settlement
A landmark settlement involving Meta is renewing conversations about the effects of social media on children and teenagers.
Dr. Danielle Johnson of The University of Kansas Health System said social media can contribute to depression, bullying, body-image concerns and disordered eating.
Girls are disproportionately affected, in part because they may see altered images and believe they are real.
“We can’t rely on social media to regulate itself,” Johnson said. “We’ve got to step in as parents.”
Experts recommend holding weekly social media wellness check-ins, using phone-monitoring services and connecting with children on social media.
Parents should explain that these steps are about safety, Johnson said, comparing them to teaching children to wear helmets and look both ways before crossing a street.
If parents see concerning behavior or content, they should take it seriously and seek professional help for their child.
