Understanding how smartphone and social media habits develop in children and adolescents

Origins and Outcomes of Smartphone and Social Media Habits Across Development

NIH-funded research Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11081831

This study is looking at how kids and teens develop their smartphone and social media habits, and whether these habits stay the same or change as they grow up, to help understand how these habits might affect their mental health and daily lives.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTemple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081831 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the psychological factors that influence the development of smartphone and social media habits in children and adolescents. It aims to understand whether these habits are stable across different ages or if they change as individuals grow. The study employs various methods, including behavior assessments, neuroimaging, self-reports, and real-time data collection, to explore how these habits affect psychological development and daily functioning. By examining a diverse group of participants, the research seeks to identify the predictors of social media habits and their potential impacts.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents aged 0-21 who use smartphones and social media.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use smartphones or social media may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that help parents, educators, and policymakers promote healthier smartphone and social media use among youth.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging literature on the effects of digital media on youth, this research aims to fill gaps in understanding the origins and outcomes of these habits, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.