Social media platforms have a deleterious effect on individuals between the ages of 18 and 50 and should be viewed similarly to alcohol and cigarettes due to their addictive nature. Adolescents, especially those going through puberty, are vulnerable to seeking affirmation online, leading to psychological addiction. Young girls are particularly impacted, getting sexualized early and facing relational bullying, which can have severe consequences on sleep and social wellbeing. Parents play a crucial role in monitoring and limiting their children's social media use, as there is no middle ground when it comes to the harmful effects on adolescents. The speaker suggests that social media platforms should be age-gated and argues that there is no valid reason for anyone under the age of 16 to be on any social media app, as the downsides outweigh the benefits significantly.