Social networks do not harm the mental health of teenagers

As a result of research conducted by scientists at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, previously held views on the impact of social networks and video games on adolescents' mental health have been reconsidered. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

The study involved more than 25,000 school students. According to the findings of this scientific research, using social networks or spending a lot of time on video games does not negatively affect adolescents' mental health.

The research was conducted over three years among children aged 12 to 15. During this process, a longitudinal method was applied to study each adolescent's personal development and mental state.

The results showed that there is no direct correlation between spending a lot of time on social networks and mental health. Also, no difference was found between the effects of active or passive use of the network on mental state.

Gender differences were also observed. Among girls, social networks and video games appeared as competitors to each other, while in boys, interest in video games was found to vary depending on their mental state.

The scientists did not find evidence confirming that measures such as limiting screen time or banning smartphones have a positive long-term effect on mental health. Therefore, rather than restricting children's use of technology, strengthening live communication and emotional support with them may bring more benefits.

In this regard, parents' approach based on mutual dialogue and cooperation is of great importance.