Study links social media warning messages to lower use among young people

A new study suggests that warning messages about the risks of social media can cut the amount of time young people spend on the apps. The findings were reported on 5 September and add to debate over how platforms affect children and teenagers.

According to Euronews, the research tested pop-up notices that highlighted possible harms before users entered social media feeds. The study found that those prompts were linked with reduced use among younger participants.

The result comes as governments and health experts continue to examine ways to limit the impact of heavy social media use on children and adolescents. The study adds to a growing body of work on whether simple on-screen interventions can change behaviour.

The report did not say the warnings eliminated use altogether, and it did not set out any policy response from platforms or regulators. It instead points to another possible tool in the wider discussion over online safety and youth wellbeing.