The Latest Breaking News from Amy Orben

Psychology explains the effect of social media on Gen Z’s mental health - how constant comparison, online pressure and endless scrolling can shape self-esteem and well-being

Generation Z faces both the positive and negative impacts of social media on their lives and mental health. While constant scrolling and comparison can harm self-esteem and disrupt sleep, these platforms serve as valuable sources of connection, support, and mental health resources. Research shows that being intentional in usage and…

The Economic Times · Sep 9

Government has carried out no modelling on under-16 social media ban impacts

The Department for Science Innovation and Technology said it has not done any modelling analysis in key areas such as mental health.

Evening Standard · Apr 19

Government to launch trial of social media ban for UK teenagers

The trial will involve 300 teenagers aged between 13 and 17

The Independent UK · Mar 24

The teen mental health crisis: a reckoning for Big Tech

A growing body of evidence links a rise in depression in children to social media use. Will it lead to more regulation?

Financial Times · Mar 26, 2023

Self-harm images online ‘can trigger young people to hurt themselves’

A new study found a link between young people viewing self-harm material and harm but further studies are needed.

The Independent UK · Mar 21, 2023

Lifestyle: Different adolescent groups have different social media effects on wellness

The researchers show that, in UK data, girls experience a negative link between social media use and life satisfaction when they are 11-13 years old and boys when they are 14-15 years old. Full story on Dynamite News:

Dynamite News · Aug 8, 2022

Social media may affect girls’ mental health earlier than boys’, study finds

Psychologists find biggest effects in girls aged 11-13, while boys’ most vulnerable age seems to be 14-15

The Guardian - UK · Mar 28, 2022

‘Parents should talk to children about social media at a young age’

Rates of mental health conditions among children have been rising in the UK, with some saying social media use is linked to increasing anxiety.

The Independent UK · Mar 28, 2022