What Are the Adverse Effects of Social Media Consumption on the Attention Spans of Developing Youth and Adolescence?

Presenter Information

Najae Smith, Long Island University

Faculty Mentor

Marquis Chandler

Major/Area of Research

Science, Social Work

Description

New research investigates the adverse effects of social media consumption on the attention spans of adolescents aged 13 to 17. Utilizing a mixed -methods approach, this study involves a diverse sample of participants from various socio-economic backgrounds from all over The United States. Quantitative data was collected through surveys assessing social media usage patterns and attention span measures, while qualitative data was obtained through interviews to gain deeper insights. Results indicate a significant negative correlation between excessive social media usage and attention spans among adolescents, with heightened distraction and reduced ability to focus on tasks. Data analysis suggests that the impact varies based on frequency and type of social media platforms used. Conclusions underscore the detrimental influence of social media on attention spans during crucial developmental stages. Implications include the need for targeted interventions to mitigate these effects and promote healthier digital habits among youth. Future research directions involve longitudinal studies to explore the long-term consequences and potential interventions to alleviate attention span challenges associated with social media consumption among adolescents.

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS
 

What Are the Adverse Effects of Social Media Consumption on the Attention Spans of Developing Youth and Adolescence?

New research investigates the adverse effects of social media consumption on the attention spans of adolescents aged 13 to 17. Utilizing a mixed -methods approach, this study involves a diverse sample of participants from various socio-economic backgrounds from all over The United States. Quantitative data was collected through surveys assessing social media usage patterns and attention span measures, while qualitative data was obtained through interviews to gain deeper insights. Results indicate a significant negative correlation between excessive social media usage and attention spans among adolescents, with heightened distraction and reduced ability to focus on tasks. Data analysis suggests that the impact varies based on frequency and type of social media platforms used. Conclusions underscore the detrimental influence of social media on attention spans during crucial developmental stages. Implications include the need for targeted interventions to mitigate these effects and promote healthier digital habits among youth. Future research directions involve longitudinal studies to explore the long-term consequences and potential interventions to alleviate attention span challenges associated with social media consumption among adolescents.