Scrutinizing the impact of social media use on mental health among Swedish youths, a longitudinal study of two birth cohorts.

Research problem and specific questionsMental health problems among youths are common and seemingly increasing. Social media has been assigned a possible causative role. However, scientific evidence is inconclusive.

To gain a better understanding of the effect of social media on youths’ mental health, this project will explore the association in a longitudinal design, considering type of social media platform, the user’s motive and activity, and the impact on everyday life and sleep.This project aims to explore:if different patterns of social media use (SMU) predict the course of well-being and mental health problems among youthsif individual factors affect the impact of SMU on the individual’s mental healthif there is a bidirectional relationship between SMU and mental healthData and methodAll participants in the ongoing study “Prevalence of emotional distress and mental disorders among teenagers in Sweden and their need for support” (PEDALS), a cross-sectional study with a representative sample of 6000 students age 14-15 and age 17-18, will be invited to participate in the here described longitudinal study.

The longitudinal study implies that the participants will be followed up at one year and two years after the PEDALS assessment (baseline assessment).

At each assessment (baseline, one year, two year) the participants will be asked about patterns of SMU, well-being, sleep, gender identity, sexual orientation, and mental distress.

Mental disorders are also assessed with a digital diagnostic interview where the responses are assessed by a clinician.Societal relevance and utilizationThere are widespread concerns about the seemingly steadily increasing prevalence of mental health problems among youths and increase in suicide rates.

Society needs to present preventive actions.

This requires longitudinal studies to gain knowledge on underlying factors that are influenceable.Exploring the relationship between SMU and mental health in youths would inform youths on beneficial SMU, offer guidance to parents and teachers, and recommendations to developers of social media platforms on favorable features.

Plan for project realizationThe study time frame is three years. Participants are recruited within the PEDALS. All assessments are digital. The questionnaires are developed in collaboration with non-governmental organizations and youth representatives. The budget of 3,7 million covers salaries for the applicant and part time research assistant and operating costs.