Pros and Cons of Instagram for Teens’ Mental Health

Researchers tracked Instagram use by teens for six months and found a link between frequent use and a greater risk for depression. However, the research team also observed that Instagram use can help adolescents feel closer to their friends, leading to lower levels of depression. The findings suggest that the mental status of teens should be closely monitored when it comes to social media use. Study author Dr. Eline Frison comments, “If using Instagram stimulates adolescents’ closeness to friends, it is beneficial in the long run, but if Instagram is not capable of that stimulation, it is harmful in the long run.”
International Communication Association, April 2017