THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY ON CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

The incredibly quick emergence of social media and digital technology has had a profound impact on the social landscape for children and young people. Although these technologies offer means for communication, education and identity development, growing attention has been given to their potential risks in relation to mental health. This scoping review addresses the following key question: what do we know from a systematic review of reviews and published primary evidence, theoretically informed approaches focusing on young people's mental health about the role that social media and technology effect the mental health of children and adolescents? Areas of focus are developmental risk vulnerability, neurobiology mechanism, emotions and well-being, social comparison and types of technology use. Their conclusions are split between positive and negative effects, suggesting mental health impacts of technology use depends greatly upon the form, function, and intensity of digital engagement. To provide a balanced and holistic account of the role that social media plays across different domains in the lives of young people on their psychological well-being, this paper synthesizes evidence from different disciplines to inform future research, policy and intervention.