Teenagers and Social Media: A Complex Relationship Exposed in New Survey

A recent survey has sparked controversy, suggesting that teenagers who use social network websites like Facebook are more likely to engage in substance use, including drinking, smoking, and marijuana. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University conducted the survey, which found that teenagers who regularly use social media are five times more likely to use tobacco, three times more likely to drink alcohol, and twice as likely to smoke marijuana compared to their peers who do not use social media. The survey's findings have raised concerns among experts and parents, who are now emphasizing the importance of open communication and parental involvement in mitigating the potential risks associated with social media use.

Key Takeaways:

• The survey found that 70% of more than 1,000 teens surveyed use a social network website on a typical day, while 30% report never using social network sites.
• Teenagers who regularly use social media are five times more likely to use tobacco, three times more likely to drink alcohol, and twice as likely to smoke marijuana compared to their peers who do not use social media.
• Experts and parents agree that regular communication and parental involvement are essential in helping teenagers navigate the potential risks associated with social media use.
• The study highlights the importance of parents staying engaged with their children's online activities and having open conversations with them about the challenges they face.
• Non-profit organizations, such as Caron Texas, are using the survey's findings as an opportunity to start a conversation with parents about the need for open communication and engagement with their children.

Statistics:

• 70% of more than 1,000 teens surveyed use a social network website on a typical day.
• 30% of teens surveyed report never using social network sites.
• Teenagers who regularly use social media are five times more likely to use tobacco.
• Teenagers who regularly use social media are three times more likely to drink alcohol.
• Teenagers who regularly use social media are twice as likely to smoke marijuana.

Sources:

• "New survey shows social media use linked to substance use in teenagers," KDAF-TV (Dallas), (c)2011
• National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, "Teenagers and Social Media: A Complex Relationship Exposed"
• Caron Texas, "The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers and Addiction"