PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The role of social media and its impact on health is being studied more closely than ever.
Social scientists and medical researchers are looking at the impact on both individuals and overall society. Much of the information being gained is not very different than the past, when TV, movies and video games were studied.
For instance, there remains a consistent relationship between a sedentary lifestyle and weight gain, as well as concerns over the impact of violent images and actions on behavior.
The reports regarding social media are consistent: Both depression and anxiety are worsened by excessive use of social media. These studies were conducted pre-pandemic.
The steady stream of disturbing news and images are presently being studied, and researchers are already pointing to a greater psychological impact.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
