Anxiety and depression in adolescents: the impact of social media according to scientific evidence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/1fzf6345Keywords:
Anxiety, Depression, Adolescents, Social Media, Mental HealthAbstract
Social media has become deeply integrated into the lives of adolescents, transforming their social relationships and identity construction. However, excessive use is associated with a significant increase in anxiety and depression in this vulnerable population. The documentary review shows that dynamics such as constant social comparison, pressure for validation through "likes," and cyberbullying are key factors that negatively impact young people's mental health. Studies show that female adolescents are especially vulnerable due to social pressures related to body image and social acceptance. On the other hand, moderate and conscious use of these platforms can offer benefits such as strengthening social ties and access to support. Protective factors such as family support, emotional education, and digital literacy contribute to mitigating the negative effects. Therefore, it is recommended to implement educational programs that foster critical skills for healthy social media use, promote open communication within the family, and develop public policies to prevent cyberbullying. The need for continued rigorous and contextualized research to better understand the causal mechanisms and develop effective interventions is also highlighted. Together, these approaches seek to balance the benefits of technology with promoting psychological well-being in adolescence.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Mirian Isabel Bustamante Cruz , Jenny Fidelina Jiménez García, Mario Manuel Jiménez García, Danny Meliton Meza Arguello (Autor/a)
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