Overview
- Published in Scientific Reports, the research surveyed 1,204 U.S. adults across two samples of Instagram users.
- Although 18% at least somewhat agreed they were addicted, roughly 2% showed symptom patterns consistent with potential addiction.
- A media analysis logged 4,383 U.S. articles using “social media addiction” versus 50 using “social media habit,” indicating language that may shape self-perception.
- The authors recommend more selective use of addiction terminology by policymakers and the press and note that habitual, conditioned use can still be harmful.
- Coverage highlights contrasting youth data, including 48% of British teens reporting they feel addicted and a WHO-reported rise in problematic use among young people in several regions.