Publications & Projects

Adolescents spend much of their daily lives online, with social media a central part of their digital environment. While findings are complex, evidence increasingly points to small but relatively consistent harms, particularly for those meeting criteria for problematic use. At the population level, these effects are concerning, given the extraordinary prevalence of exposure to social media, rising rates of problematic use and adolescents' vulnerability to mental ill-health. The complexity of determining causality should not delay action: from a public health perspective, precautionary measures are warranted. We argue for a comprehensive approach that includes effective age verification and age-appropriate protection, regulation of harmful design features for all ages and inclusion of young people's voices. Just as offline environments include regulation and guidance, digital environments must be shaped to support individual and community needs.

Digital disconnection is increasingly sparking widespread debate and action, with social media age restrictions and phone bans being enacted around the world. As more people are required or encouraged to disconnect from the Internet, this commentary argues for more inclusive and practical disconnection strategies, particularly for those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD highlights the complexities of digital disconnection, as individuals with this neurodivergent condition are often seen as the intended beneficiaries of digital detox retreats, disconnection interventions, and emerging public policies such as social media or high school phone bans. This commentary seeks to facilitate dialog and debate among digital disconnection scholars, offering a starting point for researchers interested in digital disconnection, screen time, disability, neurodivergence, and digital inclusion. By examining digital disconnection from contrasting ADHD theoretical perspectives, the paper aims to broaden the understanding of digital disconnection, considering diverse relationships with technology and the socio-cultural contexts of screen use and productivity.