ARCHIVES
VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 (2025)
The effects of social media on children's mental well-being: A systematic review
Authors
Shahad Ali Alsufyani
Abstract
This systematic review investigates the effects of
social media use on the mental well-being of children. The purpose was to
synthesize existing quantitative and qualitative research to determine the
nature of these associations, identifying both potential risks and benefits. A
comprehensive search of three major academic databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, and
Scopus) was conducted for studies published between 2015 and 2023, yielding 42
studies that met the inclusion criteria. Results indicate a complex and multifaceted
relationship. Key findings suggest that excessive and passive social media
consumption is correlated with higher levels of anxiety, depression,
loneliness, and poor body image, often exacerbated by cyberbullying and
unrealistic social comparison. However, some studies also highlighted positive
effects, such as enhanced social support, community building, and
self-expression, particularly for marginalized youth. The conclusion is that
the impact of social media is not uniform but is significantly influenced by
factors such as user characteristics, activities performed, and social
contexts. The review underscores the urgent need for targeted educational
programs and evidence-based guidelines to mitigate risks and maximize potential
benefits for children's mental health in the digital age.
Download
Pages:12-17
How to cite this article:
Shahad Ali Alsufyani "The effects of social media on children's mental well-being: A systematic review". World Journal of Medical Research , Vol 1, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 12-17
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.