The need for research on AI-driven social media and adolescent mental health

Abstract

The increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in social media platforms has transformed digital interactions, particularly among adolescents. AI-driven algorithms curate highly personalized content, reinforcing behavioral patterns and optimizing engagement. While this enhances user experience, it also raises significant concerns regarding adolescent mental health, including increased anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and body dissatisfaction. Despite the growing recognition of social media’s psychological effects, there remains a critical gap in research specifically addressing [how algorithmic mechanisms such as content recommendation systems, engagement prediction tools, and real-time behavior analysis] shape adolescent mental health. This letter advocates for greater scholarly attention to the intersection of AI and adolescent mental health, urging the Asian Journal of Psychiatry to prioritize studies that examine the psychological consequences of AI-curated digital environments. A deeper understanding of this issue is essential for informing clinical interventions, shaping ethical AI policies, and fostering digital literacy initiatives that promote adolescent well-being.