Continuing our series on the negative effects of digital algorithms on children’s learning, development, and overall well-being, today we highlight a major concern arising from excessive use of social media and the internet: the impact on mental health and self-esteem. It is easy to feel the negative impact of algorithm-driven media and information consumption on their psychological well-being, through constant exposure to depressing news coverage and information, negative posts and through constant comparison of the lives of others to our own. Children are not immune to these effects - rather, their psychological makeup makes them even more likely to fall prey to being negatively influenced by these things.
Algorithms, especially those on social media have been linked to a decrease in overall mental and psychological well-being. For example, a 2025 study published in “Addictive Behaviours” by Oli Ahmed et al showed that heavy and problematic social media use predicted poor mental health outcomes. This can range from issues such as a decrease in sleep quantity and quality to more serious problems such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, body image issues and eating disorders. Comparing our lives to those we see others living on social media can create unhealthy standards and expectations for ourselves and others, and make us devalue our own experiences and lives. Adults are not immune to this, and children and teenagers are even more vulnerable.
It is important to teach younger generations about how social media is more of a highlight reel of somebody’s life, rather than its accurate representation. Additionally, raising awareness of mental health issues and their symptoms is necessary in order to encourage them to reach out and get help. They also need to be taught how to find helpful resources online and offline, and how to talk about the issues they may be facing. Discussions of how we are feeling, what we are experiencing and thinking, as well as education on healthy relationships to ourselves, our bodies and minds is vital in preventing worst-case outcomes.
At ABI School, we believe in educating children and teenagers on responsible, intentional, and limited social-media and internet use. This approach - focused on mediating the risks and amplifying the benefits rather than completely forbidding the use of technology - helps them integrate into modern society and stay connected without being overly impacted by the adverse effects.
🔗Visit our website to learn more: abischool.fr
To complete the action, please confirm the condition
