Digital Media’s Impact on Teens: A Closer Look

The pervasive influence of digital media on teenagers is a topic of increasing concern, prompting researchers, educators, and parents to delve deeper into its multifaceted effects. A recent EU-funded study, MIMIc, is providing valuable insights into this complex landscape, offering guidance for navigating the digital world safely.

The blurred lines between online and offline realities present unique challenges for young people. Klavdija Berginc, a math and computer science teacher, has witnessed firsthand the struggles teens face in maintaining a healthy balance. “I remember a 12-year-old student who simply couldn’t function without a screen,” she recalled. “He demanded screentime as a reward for everything—from studying for a few minutes to visiting the dentist.” This anecdote underscores the growing dependency on digital devices and the urgent need for intervention.

The MIMIc study, involving thousands of teenagers across Belgium, France, and Slovenia, aims to understand whether young people can thrive in a digital world while maintaining a healthy equilibrium. Study coordinator Laura Vandenbosch emphasizes the importance of this research: “Our goal was to understand if young people can grow up in a digital world, while maintaining a healthy balance,” she said. The study examines how teens interact with platforms like Instagram and TikTok, exploring the content they consume and the impact on their mental health and self-perception.

Researchers have also focused on the role of influencers, analyzing their content and the values they promote. “At the end of the day, these influencers are opinion makers,” Vandenbosch stated. “They’re not just promoting beauty tips or shopping habits—they’re selling moral values and identity to audiences who are at a vulnerable stage of life.”

The Double-Edged Sword of Digital Influence

Exposure to digital media can have profound consequences during adolescence, a critical period for identity formation. Vandenbosch explains, “Adolescents are still finding their own identity, and they are very vulnerable to the influence of their peers—offline and online.” The MIMIc study has found a correlation between social media use and self-esteem, particularly concerning appearance and self-worth.

Common Misconception: Social media is inherently harmful to teenagers. Factual Correction: While excessive or negative use can be detrimental, social media also offers opportunities for connection, learning, and self-expression. New Understanding: The key lies in fostering healthy digital habits and promoting critical thinking skills.

Researchers also identified positive effects, such as increased body positivity among teens exposed to diverse and inclusive content. However, these benefits, like the negative impacts, are not universal, highlighting the importance of individual differences and experiences. The shift was gradual, then sudden,” observes one parent, describing her child’s rapid immersion into online culture and the subsequent challenges of navigating its complexities.

Understanding how to manage negative reactions to social media is crucial. The MIMIc study suggests that self-awareness and proactive coping strategies can mitigate the harmful effects. Vandenbosch advises, “Being aware of the impact of social media is not enough. You need to take action and, for instance, stop scrolling, stop posting, go outside, or call a friend.”

The study emphasizes that the negative impact of social media is particularly strong during periods of extended usage, meaning that even brief but frequent online interactions can have a significant effect. It’s a constant barrage. Vadenbosch said, “The effects we studied were particularly intense over a short period, but since teens are almost always online, even short-term impacts matter,”

• Promote open communication about online experiences.
• Encourage critical thinking about online content.
• Set healthy boundaries for screentime.
• Model responsible digital behavior.
• Support offline activities and hobbies.

The role of parents is paramount in guiding their children through the digital landscape. “Children whose parents have strong media literacy skills tend to fare better online,” notes Vandenbosch. Berginc echoes this sentiment: “We try to engage parents, but many don’t acknowledge that their child might have a problem. They often don’t monitor their child’s online activity or put enough effort into learning about internet use.”

Open dialogue is essential. Berginc advises, “Children need to hear that what they see online is only the best part of someone’s life. They should still value their own lives, even with all their flaws.” She also points out to the need for parental involvemnt in shaping a child’s perception, as teens often look at influencers for role-moddling behavior.

While parents play a crucial role, Vandenbosch stresses that the responsibility should not rest solely on their shoulders. “Online platforms and policymakers must step up, too,” she asserts. Platforms should be held accountable for creating safer online environments.

Toward a Safer Digital Future

The MIMIc study offers valuable insights for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. “We now know which teens are most vulnerable and when they’re most at risk,” Vandenbosch explains. “This gives us a solid foundation to push platforms to take protective measures.”

Vandenbosch expresses support for the EU’s Digital Services Act and the European strategy for a Better Internet for Kids, which aim to protect children online and promote age-appropriate design. She hopes the European Commission will consider the MIMIc findings and implement further measures to enhance online safety, including stricter enforcement of age restrictions and greater oversight of new platform features like AI chatbots. The impact of Artifical intellience on teens cannot be undermined and should be assessed.

She emphasizes the importance of media literacy education and is proud that the MIMIc study will be presented at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, showcasing Europe’s commitment to addressing societal challenges through research and innovation. There, it will be part of the Commission’s showcase of EU-funded research, demonstrating Europe’s commitment to tackling societal challanges through science and innovation.

“It’s fantastic that people around the world can learn from our findings,” Vandenbosch says. “Awareness is very important in empowering and protecting children online.” Her ultimate goal is to improve the well-being of young people in the digital age. She hopes, “Our aim was always to improve children’s well-being. The more people who hear our message, the better we can protect the next generation online.” Parents on social Media are equally concerned, and shared their opinions on X.com and Facebook. “It’s scary raising kids in this era” one user commented. Another post on instagram said “We should all do our best to keep our children safe”.