Stopping The Scroll: Navigating the Intersectionality of TikTok/Instagram and Youth Social Media Addiction-View Presentation

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Video Summary

The session, "Stopping the Scroll: Navigating the Intersectionality of TikTok, Instagram, and Youth Social Media Addiction," explores the impact of social media on youth addiction and mental health. Led by Dr. Ashwin Sood, a psychiatrist, and Dr. Mark Potenza, a Yale University neuroscientist, the discussion delves into how platforms like TikTok and Instagram influence users, especially adolescents. They highlight the neurobiological aspects of addiction, citing how instant gratification from likes and content can hijack the adolescent brain's reward system. The panelists emphasize the importance of understanding platform functions and user behavior to assess addiction risk effectively.<br /><br />Social media's role in shaping identities and social interactions is examined, emphasizing the need for empathy and open dialogue between parents, children, and clinicians. Effective strategies include setting screen time limits, creating electronic contracts, and fostering digital literacy to counter misinformation and risky online behaviors. The session also discusses broader societal implications, such as privacy concerns and regulatory debates regarding social media's role.<br /><br />Key takeaways include practical tips for families on managing screen time, recognizing signs of social media addiction, and promoting healthier digital habits. The discussion is enriched with recent studies and expert insights, concluding with a call for ongoing research to understand better and address the challenges posed by social media addiction.

Keywords

social media addiction

TikTok

Instagram

youth mental health

neurobiology

adolescent brain

screen time limits

digital literacy

privacy concerns

regulatory debates

Dr. Ashwin Sood

Dr. Mark Potenza