This fall, researchers from the University of Texas in Arlington will launch an ambitious study to explore how the daily experiences of adolescents on social networks can shape their mental health and their consumption of potential substances.
UT Arlington School of Social Work Professors Melissa Lewis And Dana LittIn collaboration with the main investigator Karrie Curry, a scientific researcher from the University of North Texas Health Science Center, will follow 250 adolescents of various backgrounds from all over Texas. Thanks to daily surveys over six weeks, the team will seize how specific types of social media engagement affect the feelings of anxiety and depression of participants and tendency to risky behavior, such as consumption of substances.
A 12 -month follow -up will help determine whether these short -term interactions predict more serious problems over time.
Unlike most previous research, which has focused on the time that adolescents spend online, this study will deepen what they see, share and respond on social networks, and how these interactions influence a range of health behaviors.
“We are going to examine a specific commitment with the content linked to the health behavior that interests us,” said Dr. Litt. “Does a teenager only consult content on consumption of substances or mental health, or does he share it?” Is this difference important? We try to understand exactly what it is risky in certain days and over time. ”
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The study could help lead to better prevention strategies and provide parents with parents about how their children sail in the complex digital world.
“There is research showing the risks of being online, but also certain advantages,” said Litt. “This study could help highlight both sides and create discussion points for parents – for example, asking questions like” What do you like online? ” “What makes you happy?” “What makes you sad?”
“Balancing the conversation, not only focusing on frightening parts, can really help. This is something that this research could lead to – future studies, prevention and interventions.”
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Parents’ interventions do not necessarily need to be a specific subject such as social media, mental health or alcohol; These are really conversation strategies, said Lewis.
“If something happens, as a problem with a peer or something on social networks, parents must approach these conversations in a way that encourages participation instead of simply reacting with anger,” she said.
The results of the study could serve as a basis and clarify strategies to prevent damage and promote healthy development in adolescents.
About the University of Texas in Arlington (UTA)
Celebrating his 130th birthday in 2025, Texas University in Arlingtonis a growing public research university at the heart of Dallas-Fort Worth’s flourishing Metroplex. With a student body of more than 41,000 people, UTA is the second largest institution in the Texas University system, offering more than 180 undergraduate and higher education programs. Recognized as a Carnegie R-1 university, UTA is one of 5% of the country’s research institutions. UTA and its 280,000 alumni generate an annual economic impact of $ 28.8 billion for the State. The University has received the appointment of innovation and economic prosperity of the association of universities of public and land grants and has gained recognition for its accent on access and success, considered as the main engines of economic growth and social progress for northern Texas and beyond.