Psychologists survey students to determine what they really think about social media

June 29, 2026 - 23:22

The first results from a large-scale survey of over 800 young people aged 11 to 17 were shared with local schoolchildren today by psychology researchers at a university event. The study, which aims to cut through adult assumptions, asked teenagers directly about their real experiences with social media platforms.

Early findings suggest that teens hold a more complex view than the simple "good or bad" narrative often pushed by adults. While many reported feeling pressure to maintain a perfect online image, a significant number also described social media as a vital tool for staying connected with friends and finding communities that share their interests. Researchers noted that the students were surprisingly articulate about the trade-offs, discussing everything from the fear of missing out to the benefits of creative expression.

The survey is part of a broader effort to understand the psychological impact of digital life on developing minds. The researchers emphasized that listening to young people themselves is crucial for creating better guidance for parents and educators. The full results are expected to be published later this year, with the team planning to follow up with the same group to track how their views change over time.