Large 3-year study of 25,629 English youth found no evidence that increased social media or gaming time predicts later anxiety or depression symptoms. Researchers note digital behavior may reflect individual differences rather than cause harm.
Quotes (our translation)
"We found no evidence that increased time on social media or gaming was associated with later symptoms of anxiety or depression, in either boys or girls."
[original: "Vi fann ingen haldepunkt for at auka tidsbruk på sosiale medium eller gaming hang saman med seinare symptom på angst eller depresjon, verken hos gutar eller jenter."]
"Our findings suggest digital behavior is not a driving force behind mental health difficulties, but rather reflects individual differences and needs during adolescence."
[original: "Funna våre tyder på at digital åtferd ikkje er ei drivkraft bak psykiske vanskar, men heller speglar individuelle forskjellar og behov i ungdomstida."]