Third of young people showing signs of social media addiction
One-third of 16-30 year-olds are exhibiting patterns of social media addiction, according to a study from the European Commission to be discussed during Safer Internet Day.
Respondents admitted to neglecting work, family or school several times a week or more because of their social media habits.
In the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre study, intensive users were defined as respondents who report that they spend more than two hours a day on social media sites or instant messaging tools. Spending this length of time on social media is associated with a substantial increase in the prevalence of loneliness among young people. However, researchers also pointed out how social media is used matters more than how often it is used.
However, more research is crucial to truly understand the challenges they face. Consequently, the Irish Safer Internet Centre will be devoting additional resources to embarking on continuous research in this area in the coming year.
The theme for Safer Internet Day 2025 is Prepare/Protect/Thrive: Navigating algorithms and influencers. This theme encourages parents, schools, educators, young people and all stakeholders to consider how algorithms and influencers shape young people’s lives.
The key issues that will be discussed today Safer Internet Day 2025 include harmful online content, safety by design, regulation and children’s rights, among many others.
Safer Internet Day 2025 kicked off with an event in Microsoft’s Dream Space with keynote addresses from Prof Debbie Ging (DCU), 5Rights Foundation and the European Centre for Algorithmic Transparency, which is part of the Joint Research Centre at the European Commission. In addition, the event included contributions from the Online Safety Commissioner Niamh Hodnett; Webwise Youth Advisory Panel; the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission; ISPCC; Media Literacy Ireland; Microsoft, Hotline.ie; and National Parents Council.
Jane McGarrigle, national co-ordinator, Webwise, said: “Technology is everywhere and it isn’t something that should be feared. We believe in encouraging children to engage with new technologies, however we are also cognisant of the importance of preparing them for the dangers they may encounter online. We want to empower them with the coping skills and resilience they need to thrive in the digital world. We also want to assure them that there is always support available if they need it and if they feel that their use of technology has become problematic.”
Online Safety Commissioner Niamh Hodnett added: “Coimisiún na Meán is focused on shaping a media landscape that safeguards the rights, wellbeing and development of children, and their safe engagement online… Following the launch of our online safety code in October of last year, Coimisiún na Meán’s online safety framework is now in place, and we are continuing to prioritise a safer Internet for children and young people.”
Safer Internet Day in Ireland is coordinated by the Irish Safer Internet Centre, a partnership between Hotline, ISPCC, National Parents Council and Webwise, providing a range of complementary online safety services, including an education and awareness centre, child and parent helplines and a hotline. The Centre is coordinated by the Dept of Justice and co-funded by the European Union.
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