Shocking Report: 75% of Teens Use Social Media Daily—What They're Overlooking Could Change Everything!

(TNND) — A recent study by the Pew Research Center reveals that an overwhelming majority of American teenagers are actively engaged on popular social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, this latest research introduces an intriguing new aspect: the rising use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots among teens. Importantly, this marks the first time the Pew Research Center has queried teens about their interaction with these AI technologies, with findings indicating that most adolescents are utilizing them regularly.

Despite a growing awareness among young people regarding the potential risks associated with social media, usage rates for these platforms remain remarkably stable. More than 90% of teens report using YouTube, which stands as the most popular platform with 94% of boys and 89% of girls actively participating. A staggering 75% of teens indicate they use YouTube daily, with 17% claiming they are on the platform nearly constantly.

In addition to YouTube, over 60% of teenagers also use TikTok and Instagram, while more than half report using Snapchat. In stark contrast, Facebook has seen its usage plummet from 71% a decade ago to just 31% today. Furthermore, fewer than a quarter of teens utilize platforms like WhatsApp, Reddit, or X.

Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth, the chief medical officer for The Jed Foundation (JED), an organization dedicated to promoting mental health among teens and young adults, emphasizes the dual nature of social media's impact. While it can foster connection, creativity, and entertainment, Dr. Erickson-Schroth cautions against overlooking its risks. "The teen years are a unique time when young people are exploring their identities, learning about the world, and undergoing significant physical and emotional growth," she notes. "Brain development continues until around age 25, and because of this, teens are more likely to take risks, act impulsively, and seek out immediate rewards such as likes or comments."

The effects of social media can vary widely among users. For some—especially teenage girls—excessive social media use can negatively impact self-esteem and lead to issues like poor body image. Dr. Erickson-Schroth points out that many teens report feeling more anxious, lonely, or sad the more they engage with these platforms. As she states, "Research shows that higher amounts of daily use, especially constant or near-constant use, are associated with increased mental health risk." The critical factor, she argues, is not just how much screen time teens are logging, but how they are using it. Teens should aim to engage with applications that uplift their mood rather than those that exacerbate negative feelings.

As concerns mount regarding the mental health implications of social media and AI tools, the conversation is increasingly turning towards regulation. Australia recently pioneered a national ban on social media for children under the age of 16, prompting discussions about whether similar measures should be considered in the U.S. While Dr. Erickson-Schroth refrains from endorsing a national ban, she stresses the importance of governmental involvement in ensuring the online safety of young individuals, especially in relation to AI technologies.

Significantly, the Pew Research Center's survey found that about two-thirds of teens use AI chatbots, with nearly 30% reporting daily use. The most popular of these is ChatGPT, utilized by nearly six in ten teenagers. In contrast, fewer than a quarter of teens turn to Gemini or Meta AI, and less than 10% engage with platforms like Character.AI or Claude. Research by Common Sense Media indicates that 72% of teens have experimented with AI companions at least once, with more than half using them regularly for social interactions like role-playing, emotional support, and conversation practice.

Dr. Erickson-Schroth warns that using AI for emotional support can be problematic. "AI chatbots often pose as friends or therapists, which can feel emotionally supportive to users in the moment but ultimately reinforce emotional dependency on the chatbot, delay help-seeking, and disrupt or replace real friendships," she explains. This is particularly concerning as many teens turn to AI tools for mental health support, an area where the need for human connection and professional guidance is paramount.

Parents can play a crucial role in helping their teens cultivate a healthy relationship with technology. Dr. Erickson-Schroth encourages open, nonjudgmental conversations about social media and AI usage. She suggests practical measures such as setting parental controls, using apps to monitor screen time, turning off push notifications, and establishing "no phone zones" like during family meals. "Parents can support their teens, but policymakers and technology companies have a clear and urgent responsibility to design, regulate, and oversee AI and social media in ways that support, not harm, teens’ safety and emotional well-being," she concludes.