Teens Nowadays Can’t Get Enough of Their Screens: Nearly Half of US Youth Are “Always” Online
Life for teenagers in the United States is deeply intertwined with technology. From constant use of digital platforms to almost universal access to smartphones and computers, young people are immersed in a hyperconnected environment. However, this digital relationship not only redefines their habits but also raises concerns about their well-being.
### Which platforms dominate among teenagers?
The report highlights that YouTube is used by 90% of teenagers. Although it has seen a slight decrease from 95% in 2022, it still leads in terms of reach and frequency of use.
– TikTok: Used by 63% of teenagers, although with a slight decrease from the previous year.
– Instagram and Snapchat: Also show a slight decline, with 55% and 59% of users respectively.
– X (formerly Twitter): Experiences the biggest drop, with only 17% of teenagers using it, down from 23% in 2022.
– WhatsApp: In contrast to this downward trend, it has increased from 17% to 23% in two years.
Furthermore, the report highlights differences by gender and ethnicity. Girls use TikTok more frequently (19% almost constantly), while boys prefer YouTube (19% almost constantly). Among Hispanic teenagers, TikTok and Instagram are used significantly more consistently than by their peers from other demographics.
### Access to technology is nearly universal
95% of teenagers own a smartphone, while 88% have a desktop or laptop computer. This level of connectivity reflects how digital devices are ingrained in young people’s lives.
However, this integration poses challenges, particularly regarding mental health. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to social media could influence the emotional well-being of teenagers, although the relationship between digital use and mental health is still under study.
While the constant use of the internet among teenagers raises concerns, efforts are being made to protect minors. For instance, Australia has passed a law banning social media use for those under 16 years old.
Although these measures aim to safeguard young people, they raise questions about their feasibility and potential side effects, such as social isolation. “It’s unclear how the age limit will be implemented and how it will affect more vulnerable teenagers,” the report states.
### Final thoughts
The study emphasizes the importance of continuing to research the effects of hyperconnectivity on teenagers. While digital platforms offer unique opportunities for communication and learning, they also present significant challenges for their social and emotional development.
In an increasingly digitalized world, the challenge is to find a balance that allows young people to take advantage of the benefits of technology without compromising their well-being. Meanwhile, the constant use of the internet among teenagers continues to set a trend that shows no signs of slowing down.
