Social Media’s Effect on Girls (#88)

Did you know that since 2007, suicide rates have doubled and that since 2010, rates of depression, self-harm, and suicide have increased more in girls than boys? Did you know that girls are 3 times more likely to be depressed than boys? Listen in as Melanie delves into the link between social media use and how it is adversely affecting the development of self-esteem, identity formation, interpersonal relational skills, and emotional well-being in girls. She also discusses how social media use reduces intellectual abilities, impulse control, one’s immune system, and sleep. Lastly, Melanie emphasizes the importance of family and parental connection and recommends several interventions parents can put into action today. Whether you have a daughter or not, this is an episode you will not want to miss.

Other Citations: Decreases in psychological well-being among American adolescents after 2012 and links to screen time during the rise of smartphone technology.

Support the show

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!

• Start your ScreenStrong Journey today!
• Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more!
• Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!

ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations

• Gabb Wireless—Smartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount)
• Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)

Production Team:

• Host: Melanie Hempe
• Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin