As summer begins and routines shift, many teens turn to their screens—scrolling through social media or getting lost in video games. While balancing screen time and outdoor activities has long been a concern for parents, emerging research suggests the real issue may lie not in the quantity of screen time but in the nature of teens’ relationship with screens.

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (June 2024) reveals that screen addiction, rather than just the amount of time spent online, is a stronger predictor of mental health problems like depression, anxiety, aggression, and even suicidal thoughts. Signs of this behavioral addiction include compulsive use, distress when not using a device, and difficulty disengaging.

The study, led by data scientist and mental health researcher Dr. Yunyu Xiao, found that nearly 30% of children showed signs of social media addiction by age 11, and around 40% were addicted to video games. These patterns remained consistent over several years.

Why Are Teens More Vulnerable?

Teenagers are naturally inclined to seek peer approval and take risks—a normal part of growing up. But their brains, especially the prefrontal cortex responsible for self-regulation, are still developing. Platforms like social media are designed to provide constant feedback through likes, comments and shares, creating a dopamine-driven feedback loop similar to gambling.

Because of this, experts liken the effect of screen addiction to other behavioral disorders like substance use or binge eating. However, unlike alcohol or gambling, screens are embedded into modern life, making complete avoidance unrealistic.

How Can Families Help?

Rather than banning devices altogether, experts recommend setting structured limits—similar to rules around sugary foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises families to focus on what screen time is replacing, encouraging activities like outdoor play, face-to-face interaction and good sleep habits. Creating screen-free zones, especially in bedrooms and during meals, can also help restore balance.

In more severe cases, temporary device removal may be needed. While this can trigger emotional backlash (often called an « extinction burst »), many teens eventually adjust and rediscover other forms of engagement.

A Wider Responsibility

Experts warn that the issue goes beyond families. Many features that drive compulsive screen use are intentionally built into platforms. That’s why some countries, like the U.S., are introducing laws to limit notifications for minors and restrict addictive content.

Schools and mental health professionals also have a role to play. Integrating digital well-being education into classrooms and clinical screenings could help identify risks earlier. As awareness grows, more schools are testing “phone-free” days and reconsidering how devices are used in learning environments.

While the challenge is significant, researchers remain optimistic. With collective action from parents, educators, clinicians, and policymakers, screen addiction can be managed and teen mental health better protected.