Scrolling to death? Here’s what happens to kids when they’re introduced to social media at an early age

General Alpha is already leading the latest wave of memes (Skibidi toilet, anyone? Nobody?), it can feel like babies are learning to scroll before they even learn to walk. As social media has become an important part of growing up these days, Australia has become the first country to come up with plans to ban it for minors. This has raised a question that desperately needs to be answered: how much is too much when it comes to kids on social media?

Risks are not just rumors. Researchers have been raising red flags for years, suggesting that too much screen time at a young age can have long-term consequences. So let’s see what the science says about how early exposure to social media affects kids’ minds, moods, and everything in between.

Fighting sleep

Blue light disrupts not only the sleep of adults, but also the sleep of children, only they are even more vulnerable. Screens, especially before bed, can delay the production of melatonin, the hormone that tells our bodies it’s time to sleep. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who use screens before bed often sleep less and feel sluggish the next day. This not only leads to fatigue; Lack of sleep can also affect children’s learning, memory, and even mood stability.

Scrolling through emotions

The impact of social media on mental health is a bit like playing with fire. While moderate consumption can boost self-esteem and help children feel more connected, excessive consumption can tip the scales in the other direction, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Excessive use of social media can lead to anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Children may also suffer from FOMO (fear of missing out) as they constantly compare themselves to perfect photos of others. Imagine having to deal with this pressure before you even enter high school – it’s no wonder it causes stress in young minds.

Concentrating at random

Social media doesn’t just grab kids’ attention; it takes him on a fast-paced roller coaster ride. Research from several regions, including India, suggests that children who spend a lot of time on social media may have a harder time focusing on tasks without instant reward. The endless cycle of quick likes and notifications can make school work and even daily life feel sluggish in comparison. Think of it as training a child’s brain to expect rewards consistently and quickly—something that real life simply doesn’t offer.

Virtual friends vs real connections

Kids may think they have tons of friends online, but are those connections as meaningful as the ones they make in person? UCLA researchers have found that children who spend a lot of time online may have difficulty developing strong real-life social skills such as reading body language and empathy.

This doesn’t mean social media is bad; for marginalized children or those with niche interests, it can provide a sense of belonging and community. But the danger is that virtual friendships begin to replace real ones, making it more difficult for children to communicate offline.

Cyberbullying and online harassment

The Internet has its dark sides, and cyberbullying tops the list. According to the Center for Cyberbullying Research, more than half of teens have experienced some form of cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, which may stop as soon as the school bell rings, online bullying can follow children home, affecting their mental health in the long term. Children who experience online bullying are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and even thoughts of self-harm, making the need to set boundaries even clearer.

Body image battles

Apps like Instagram and TikTok are fun, but they can also be a trap for body image issues, especially for girls. A study published in the Body Image Journal found that young girls who frequently use social media are more likely to experience body dissatisfaction. When children see a constant stream of “perfect” lives and appearances, they may begin to feel like they don’t measure up, even if they are barely old enough to understand the concept of self-esteem.

To publish or not to publish?

Despite the risks, social media isn’t all bad. When used responsibly, it can be a powerful tool for learning and creativity. These platforms can promote creative expression and provide educational content that promotes academic growth. For children with special interests or those who feel isolated, online communities can offer a sense of belonging and support.
As we continue to integrate technology into every aspect of our lives, understanding and mitigating its impact on our youngest members has become increasingly important. For parents and caregivers, the key is to set boundaries, promote open communication, and teach children to thoughtfully navigate the digital world. Australia’s position could be the catalyst needed to encourage similar protective measures around the world, ensuring children can reap the benefits of technology without falling prey to its pitfalls.