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Social media and the internet

Social media are forms of digital communication through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content.

Social media use is not inherently beneficial or harmful. Social media platforms offer powerful opportunities for socialization and connection, but may also have some negative effects, including mis- and disinformation, hate speech, and cyberbullying. At the extreme, social media use can interfere with sleep, physical activity, and in-person social interactions.

Adapted from APA’s health advisory on social media use in adolescence and Social media brings benefits and risks to teens

Youth and social media

New report

Potential risks of content, features, and functions: The science of how social media affects youth

Almost a year after APA issued its health advisory on social media use in adolescence, society continues to wrestle with ways to maximize the benefits of these platforms while protecting youth from the potential harms associated with them