Social media use linked to lower academic performance in children

A study published in Nature Human Behaviour involving 5,227 Italian children aged 7 to 16 has found a link between early social media use and poorer academic performance. Researchers from institutions including Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca observed that children who created social media accounts in the 6th or 7th grade performed significantly worse in Italian, English, and mathematics compared to those who waited until the 9th grade or later. Early users were also more likely to repeat a grade and reported lower self-confidence in school settings.

In Sweden, Social Minister Jakob Forssmed addressed the broader challenges facing children's mental well-being, noting that extensive screen use and social media have significantly altered childhood. The Swedish government has commissioned an investigation into neurodevelopmental disorders (NPF) to analyze the increasing rates of ADHD and autism diagnoses. This delegation aims to propose measures to improve societal support for children with these conditions, including addressing the lack of resources and support within the school system.