Social Media's Impact on Mental Health and Democracy

Social media, especially platforms like Facebook and TikTok, significantly impact the mental health of teenagers. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt argues that smartphones and social media have led to a mental health crisis among the younger generation. With smartphones and social media fueling teen and adolescent mental health issues, Haidt proposes a four-step plan to create a healthier childhood in the digital age. While there is debate about the severity of smartphone impacts and the feasibility of reforms like banning phones in schools, kids themselves acknowledge the detrimental effects of excessive social media usage.