Social networking is the act of sharing ideas, photos or videos, messaging, chatting, dating, emailing, and socializing in an online community using applications, websites, social media sites, and computer programs.
Online social networking sites (SNSs) are web-based services, or virtual communities, that allow individuals to engage with other people based on common interests. The most popular platforms are TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Snapchat.
The scientific literature shows that persistent and recurrent use of SNSs, and a preoccupation with them, can result in clinically significant impairment or distress. The condition criteria in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition, Test Revision, of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) does not currently include general internet or social media use as a diagnosable condition.
ON THIS PAGE:
Key Learnings or Messages | Prevalence & Trends | Continuum of Social Networking | Intervention & Treatment | Case Study | Screening & Assessment Tools | Service Provider Resources
Over the past 20 years, the number of global social network users has grown by an estimated two billion. This rapid growth underscores the need for service providers to understand the evolving landscape of social networking and its impacts on youth.
For information on social networking data, visit Statista.
Social networking, when enjoyed in moderation, can have positive impacts on the lives of children and youth. Although there are clear benefits, children and youth who are involved in misuse, overuse, and unsupervised access to social networking sites may experience mental health concerns such as stress and loneliness, increased physiological arousal, decreased attention and emotional well-being, sleep disturbances, hyperactivity, aggression, antisocial or fearful behaviour, and excessive use leading to symptoms of technology addiction.
There are several prevention and intervention strategies that can be implemented in school settings, home, and healthcare communities. Schools and communities play an important role in teaching children and youth about respectful communication, strategies for safe internet use, benefits and risks of social networking sites (SNSs), prevention of cyberbullying, and managing the use of SNSs responsibly.
The clinical description portrayed is fictional. Any resemblance with real cases is purely coincidental.
Assess the behaviours, feelings, and thoughts of children and youth who are experiencing negative effects from problematic use of social networking sites, using the different types of measures offered. These tools help to determine the nature and severity of possible behavioural addiction, concurrent or mental issues.
When results of screening indicate that there is a problematic use of social media, service providers must do the following to conduct a more comprehensive assessment that targets the issue:
Resources, including tips and fact sheets, websites, videos, brochures, and academic articles are helpful for service providers when supporting children, youth, and families facing challenges related to the problematic use of social networking sites.
