Marketplace Tech
Youngsters’ social media habit has developmental impact, researcher says
Mar 3, 2025
Eva Telzer, a neuroscience and psychology professor at UNC Chapel Hill, dives deep into the heavy social media habits of teenagers. With a staggering number of teens online constantly, she highlights how this relentless connectivity reshapes adolescent brain development. Telzer discusses the psychological effects, such as increased sensitivity to social feedback that can lead to anxiety and loneliness. She also touches on the necessity for adult guidance and possible legal measures to ensure safer social media experiences for young users.
13:16
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Intense social media engagement among adolescents can lead to heightened anxiety and loneliness, impacting their long-term emotional development.
- Parents and educators must actively manage young people's social media usage to promote healthier interactions and emotional well-being.
Deep dives
Adolescents' Digital Engagement
Many adolescents are heavily engaged with social media, spending an average of eight or more hours on their devices daily. Some teens even report being online upwards of 16 hours a day, indicating a pervasive presence of technology in their lives. This intense online engagement often leads to a behavior known as 'fubbing,' where individuals are physically present but mentally absorbed in their devices, impacting real-life interactions. The combination of constant connectivity and the need for social validation can make it challenging for them to disconnect and engage in face-to-face relationships.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
