Too Much Social Media Use by Your Teen?

The use of social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other similar ones have skyrocketed over the past few years, especially with the ability to access these items on smartphones and ipods. These platforms provide additional ways for teens to stay connected with their friends, try to build new friendships, and keep in touch with people that they don’t have the ability to see face-to-face that often. At the same time, many parents worry about their teens spending too much time on these platforms as well as what they read and post.

The decision as to whether your teen uses Facebook, Instagram, etc., too much ultimately is up to you. Nonetheless, a few questions to ask yourself about your teen’s use can help you determine if they may be using these platforms too much:

1)      Does your teen seem uncomfortable when in situations where they cannot access these apps or sites (i.e., airplane without wifi, family event where they shouldn’t have their phone out)?

2)      Does use of social media prevent your teen from spending time face-to-face with friends?

3)      Does use of Instagram, etc. interfere with your teen’s ability to complete homework or household chores?

4)      Do they seem more focused on having something to post online than enjoying activities in the moment?

If the answer is “yes” to these questions, it is likely that your teen’s use of social media is impacting their functioning. This doesn’t automatically mean that they need treatment to address the issue. It means that you need to take a closer look at the whole picture of your teen’s functioning (i.e., how they are doing socially, emotionally, academically), discuss your concerns with your teen, and see if you can work with them collaboratively to address the issue. If you cannot do this successfully, or if the attachment to social media is very severe, it would be best to consult a mental health professional to determine if treatment would be helpful in addressing the issue. While sometimes overuse of social media is the main issue that is occurring, often times it is masking a more significant issue such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, or another issue.

Social media have many benefits, but can also cause a lot of issues. Thus, if you see your teen struggling with social media use, take action now, before it becomes even harder to address.

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Dr. Carey Heller is a licensed psychologist with The Heller Psychology Group LLC in Bethesda, Maryland. He specializes in work with children, adolescents, and families, and is happy to answer questions and provide consultations for individuals who are considering pursuing treatment, an evaluation, or other services for their child, adolescent, or themselves. Dr. Heller can be reached at (301)-385-2610 or careyheller@thehellerpsychologygroup.com.

*Disclaimer: The previous information is intended as general guidance based on my professional opinion, does not constitute an established professional relationship,  and should not replace the recommendations of a psychologist or other licensed professional with whom you initiate or maintain a professional relationship*