The representation of adolescent social media use: a systematic review and content analysis of UK newspaper articles.

backgroundThe rapid rise in social media use among adolescents has led to widespread public and academic debate about its potential risks, especially concerning mental health. Media representations are integral in shaping public and policy attitudes towards such issues. This study therefore critically examines how UK newspapers portray the risks and benefits of adolescent social media use.

methodsWe systematically searched for articles discussing adolescent social media use published in UK newspapers or on the BBC News website between 2014 and 2024. In total, 307 met our criteria for inclusion. We conducted a content analysis of the included articles, paying attention to the specific risks and benefits discussed, the sources of information used, and the sentiment of the headlines. We used cross-tabulation analyses to examine how representations varied across different newspapers, analysing associations between publication type, use of research evidence and quotations, and reporting of risks/benefits.

resultsMost headlines (58%) were negatively framed, with tabloids generally adopting a more negative tone than broadsheets. The overwhelming majority of articles (98%) discussed potential risks, with mental health concerns, exposure to harmful content, online conflict, and inappropriate adult contact being the most frequently cited concerns. Almost one in every four articles (24%) discussed suicidality and/or suicide in relation to adolescent social media use. In contrast, only 16% of articles discussed any potential benefits of adolescent social media use. Fewer than one-third of articles (31%) used evidence to support claims. When evidence was included, grey literature, such as reports from charities or government bodies, was used more than twice as often as academic research.

conclusionsOur findings highlight a disproportionate focus on the potential risks of adolescent social media use relative to the potential benefits, especially regarding mental health. This framing is somewhat inconsistent with the current empirical evidence and may contribute to increased public anxiety. This framing also has the potential to shape policy agendas in ways that do not fully reflect young people's lived experiences. We call for more balanced, evidence-based media coverage to foster a more informed public conversation. Improving the accuracy and sensitivity of reporting could, in turn, support the development of more effective policy responses and interventions.