Teens using TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat say one app affects their sleep and focus more. A survey from Pew Research Center highlights that TikTok is seen as a bigger distraction than Instagram and Snapchat among U.S. teens. Over a quarter of teens admitted they spend too much time on TikTok, and more than a third noted it negatively impacts their sleep. Additionally, 29% claimed it hampers their productivity. However, eight in 10 teens still turn to TikTok mainly for entertainment. While Instagram and Snapchat also provide entertainment, they are more often used to stay connected with friends and family. Despite the negative effects on sleep and productivity, 71% of teens stated TikTok neither harmed nor benefited their mental health. The same sentiment was echoed for Instagram and Snapchat. About 19% felt TikTok actually improved their mental health. Generally, seven in 10 teens reported mostly positive experiences with these apps. The findings are based on a survey of 1,458 U.S. teens and their parents. Meanwhile, some critics compare social media companies’ current challenges to a “Big Tobacco moment” after a legal case against Meta and YouTube. TikTok and Snapchat settled before the trial. Pew’s survey suggests teens may harbor less negativity towards these platforms than anticipated, although a quarter of parents believe social media affects their teenagers’ mental health negatively. Only 8% of teens agreed with this view. Parents perceived a higher excessive use of TikTok by their teens compared to the teens themselves.
Teens Reveal Which App Disrupts Sleep the Most: TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat
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