Exploring how social media affects mental health in adolescents
Using functional magnetic resonance imaging to understand how positive and negative TDM experiences relate to mental and behavioral health
This study is looking at how using social media affects the feelings and behaviors of young people aged 12 to 20, helping us understand how being included or excluded online can impact their mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913551 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between technology and digital media (TDM) use, particularly social media, and its impact on the mental and behavioral health of adolescents aged 12 to 20. By utilizing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the study aims to understand how experiences of social inclusion and exclusion on social media influence adolescents' emotional responses and overall well-being. The research will analyze how different patterns of TDM use may lead to varying health outcomes, addressing the mixed results found in previous studies. Participants will engage in activities that assess their social media interactions and emotional reactions, providing valuable insights into the effects of digital communication on youth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who actively use social media platforms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use social media or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of how social media influences adolescent mental health, potentially guiding interventions to enhance positive experiences and mitigate negative ones.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the impact of social media on adolescent health, indicating that this study's approach to understanding moderating factors is both novel and necessary.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cascio, Christopher N — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Cascio, Christopher N
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.