Filtering reality: Navigating Instagram’s influence on adolescent mental health

Abstract

The article presents a meticulous review of the multifaceted influence on the mental well-being of adolescents. This article focuses on how Instagram affects the mental health of teenagers. The researchers looked at databases like PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for studies on “Instagram,” “adolescents,” “mental health,” “well-being,” “effect,” and “impact” from the year 2016-2023. They found 132 articles and chose 37 to study in depth. This study explores how Instagram affects teenagers’ mental health positively and negatively. On the positive side, Instagram can be a platform for creativity and connection. However, excessive use can lead to depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and low self-esteem. It also sheds light on the hidden danger of cyberbullying, which is rampant on Instagram and can severely impact adolescent mental well-being. While acknowledging these risks, the article recognizes that Instagram plays a role in adolescent socialization and offers opportunities for interventions, such as vaping awareness campaigns. The report wraps up by offering suggestions for handling teen mental health in the age of Instagram. Ideas include encouraging people to use Instagram responsibly, advising parents and instructors, and outlining areas for more research. The paper highlights the need for mindful technology use on Instagram because of its possible effects on teen mental health.

Introduction

Social media has become a crucial aspect of our daily routine, offering various benefits such as communication, connection, and leisure.[1,2] Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and LinkedIn enable users to interact with loved ones, express their ideas and adventures, and explore diverse content.[3,4,5] The impact of social media on society, culture, and business is undeniable, shaping the way we interact and consume information.[4,6] A study indicates that in 2021, an impressive 3.78 billion individuals globally used social media, demonstrating its substantial impact and reach. Instagram, in particular, has gained immense popularity among users, especially teenagers.[7] With its focus on visual storytelling through photos and videos, Instagram has become a go-to platform for sharing moments, experiences, and life updates. The app’s features, like stories, reels, and Instagram Television (IGTV), have revolutionized how we consume content, compelling us to spend countless hours scrolling through our feeds.

In today’s digital age, Instagram has become a staple in the daily lives of individuals across different age groups, with a significant focus on young adults and teenagers.[4] The app’s user-friendly interface, visual appeal, and diverse features have made it a preferred platform for social interaction, content creation, and entertainment.[6] For adolescents, Instagram serves as a virtual meeting place, allowing them to connect with peers, share experiences, and express themselves creatively.[4] Its visual-centric nature appeals to the younger demographic, providing a platform for self-expression and identity exploration. Through features like stories and live videos, adolescents can engage in real-time interactions, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Furthermore, Instagram’s influence extends beyond social connections, as it has become a hub for visual inspiration and trend discovery. Young users often look to influencers, celebrities, and brands for fashion, lifestyle, and beauty trends, shaping their preferences and consumption habits.[4]

The impact of Instagram on adolescents is profound and multifaceted.[8,9] As an integral part of their daily lives, Instagram can shape perceptions, behaviors, and emotional well-being. The platform’s emphasis on visual content and instant gratification has led to a culture of comparison and validation-seeking among teenagers. The quest for likes, comments, and followers has become a driving force, influencing self-worth and self-esteem. Studies on teenagers have shown that using Instagram has both benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, it provides a space for creative expression, fostering a sense of community and allowing individuals to connect with like-minded peers. While Instagram may have some benefits, it has also been linked to harmful effects. These include Addiction to the platform, Increased narcissism, Changes in mood and emotions, and Unacceptable or unethical behavior. The potential impact of Instagram on young people’s mental well-being is a serious concern that needs more investigation and attention. This review aims to delve deeper into the effects of Instagram on adolescents’ mental well-being and raise awareness about the potential risks associated with excessive use of the platform.

Materials and Methods

Search strategy: A systematic search strategy was employed to gather relevant and comprehensive information. We used a combination of keywords such as “Instagram,” “adolescents,” “mental health,” “well-being,” “effect,” and “impact” in various databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar. We also reviewed relevant studies cited in the sources mentioned above to ensure a thorough examination of the topic. A total of 132 articles from 2016 to 2023 were retrieved and screened for relevance and quality, narrowed down to 44 articles, and presented in the following sections.

Results and Discussion

Comprehending the Adolescent Brain and the Impact of Social Media: Understanding the influence of the adolescent brain and social media is crucial in comprehending the potential impact of these platforms on mental health. During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant changes in areas responsible for self-regulation, risk-taking, and social interaction. These changes make adolescents more vulnerable to the influence of social media, including Instagram, and its potential impact on their mental health. Instagram “likes” influence behavioral and neural responses, particularly activating the brain’s reward system. Moreover, it suggests that this influence is more vital for adolescents compared to young adults, particularly in the context of risk-taking behavior. Furthermore, anxious ambivalent attachment style, which is associated with Instagram addiction, can be seen as a risk factor for social appearance anxiety.[10]

The Surge of Instagram’s Popularity Among Adolescents: Instagram has become increasingly popular among adolescents [Figure 1], with many young people actively using the platform. The prevalence of Instagram use among adolescents highlights the need to understand its effects on mental health. The rise of Instagram among adolescents is a notable trend that cannot be ignored when examining its impact on mental health.

Figure 1.

Percentage of teens age 13 to 17 years who say they ever use instagram

Adolescent mental health: the double-edged sword: Instagram has both positive and negative effects on teenagers’ mental health. It can offer a space for self-expression and connection, which can be beneficial. However, spending too much time on Instagram and comparing oneself to others can have negative consequences.[6] Studies have linked heavy Instagram use in teens to symptoms of depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping, low self-esteem, difficulty paying attention, and less happiness.[7] Furthermore, the quest for likes, comments, and followers has become a driving force among adolescents, influencing their self-worth and self-esteem. According to specific research, utilizing social media might escalate the chances of self-inflicted injuries, isolation, as well as reduced compassion. Other findings also indicated that no damage was caused or some individuals could gain from using it.[11]

Investigating How Instagram Use Relates to Teenagers’ Mental Well-being: Studies have shown a strong connection between Instagram usage and negative body image, as well as decreased self-esteem among adolescents. Excessive exposure to Instagram’s perfectly tailored images of ideal figures and lives sets unrealistic benchmarks for appearance and well-being. This can damage one’s body image, fostering dissatisfaction and a diminished sense of self-worth. Additionally, the comparison culture on Instagram can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. Teen girls often don’t realize that Instagram photos can be altered. They tend to interpret both real and edited photos as accurate reflections of how people look. However, being shown altered Instagram photos directly led to girls feeling less satisfied with their bodies and having a poorer body image.[12] Peer and self-perceptions, as well as attitudes toward sexualized images, play a significant role in influencing sexy self-presentation behaviors among adolescents on Instagram.[13] Instagram usage can greatly influence how people feel about their bodies because it encourages them to compare their looks to others.[14]

Excessive Instagram use among teenagers can result in mental health issues like loneliness, depression, anxiety, and social anxiety. Body dissatisfaction may play a role in these effects. Female teenagers tend to show higher levels of problematic Instagram use and mental health symptoms compared to males, suggesting that they may be more susceptible to these adverse outcomes.[15] Both male and female teens are impacted by body image concerns and societal pressures. Instagram and unrealistic ideals shape body perceptions and satisfaction for both genders. Females engage in more image editing than males, which suggests they perceive more significant pressure to meet societal beauty norms.[16] Dalkic argues that regardless of whether adolescents have positive or negative body cathexis, their use of Instagram doesn’t significantly influence their self-efficacy.[17]

Cyberbullying, Victimization, and Instagram: Unveiling a Covert Hazard: Instagram has the highest percentage of adolescent users reporting experiences with cyberbullying, indicating that it is a significant platform for such behavior.[18] The use of Instagram also presents a hidden danger in the form of cyberbullying.[19,20] Instagram cyberbullying includes Publishing hurtful or humiliating pictures, Adding hurtful captions to posts, Leaving harmful or hateful comments, Using negative hashtags, Setting up phony accounts or profiles, and disclosing private or sensitive data on public platforms.[1] Indian adolescents displayed a higher tendency for cyberbullying, while Singaporean adolescents reported higher instances of cyber victimization. Male adolescents in Singapore experience higher rates of cyber victimization on Instagram compared to their female counterparts and both genders in India. Females in Singapore were more likely to intervene when witnessing harassment on Instagram compared to Indian female adolescents.[18] Bullying of this nature can significantly harm teenagers’ mental well-being. It can make them feel more anxious, sad, and alone.[21] Online bullying or cyber victimization has been commonly linked with increased rates of self-injury thoughts of death and other internalizing & externalizing problems. Moreover, social media peer pressure like being spurned by friends fights on internet platforms as well as drama or conflicts among themselves can put them at risk too. Also online where adolescents can get access to various peer groups and harmful materials represented in worrisome content posted by their friends the process of peer influence may be intensified. If these materials show risky behaviors then their audience members are likely to engage in such activities (e.g., taking alcohol and drugs).[21]

The Influence of Instagram on Sleep-related Issues: The excessive use of Instagram, especially before bedtime, can contribute to adolescent sleep problems.[22] The blue light from screens, such as those used for Instagram, can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Studies have shown that Instagram use can negatively affect the mental well-being of young people.[20,23]

The Relationship Between Instagram and Depression: Studies have found that people who spend much time on Instagram are more likely to experience feelings of sadness and low mood.[20,24] Scrolling through Instagram’s endless stream of flawless images can trigger feelings of inferiority and self-doubt in those who feel vulnerable. Constantly comparing themselves to the idealized versions of others can lead to dissatisfaction with their own lives, and in some cases, these feelings can contribute to depressive symptoms.[21] The more adolescents browsed Instagram, the more likely they were to exhibit a depressed mood later, and adolescents with a higher degree of depressed mood were more likely to post on Instagram later.[20,25] While Instagram provides a sense of community and understanding, it can often lead to hashtag trends that encourage self-harm, the development of poor coping strategies, and potentially create a mental health crisis.[26]

The Link Between Instagram and Anxiety: Similarly, studies have found a correlation between Instagram use and increased levels of anxiety among adolescents.[20] Instagram use has been linked to heightened anxiety levels in adolescents. In addition, the pressure to maintain a particular image or persona on Instagram adds to the anxiety experienced by users.[20]

The Connection Between Instagram and Substance Use: Every Instagram user, no matter their age, has the ability to follow profiles for alcohol brands. On average, these users receive approximately 362 advertisements for alcohol-related products over 30 days. Alcohol advertisers, representatives, and/or enthusiasts directly interacted with underage profiles through comments and followed those underage profiles.[20,27] Instagram was found to glamourize the consumption of alcohol, often influencing adolescents to imitate risky drinking practices. During the COVID-19 pandemic, significant evidence suggests that Spanish teenagers who spent more time on Instagram were more likely to engage in risky drinking behaviors.[28]

A low rate of appropriate advertisement disclosures and educational information in alcohol-related Instagram posts and a significant potential influence of Instagram influencers’ alcohol-related posts on their followers, particularly their young followers.[29] Contrary to common belief, research by Lazard and colleagues suggests that teenagers do not view e-cigarette use as fashionable or socially desirable. In fact, adolescents express negative opinions toward young people who share images of Juul or similar vaping devices on social media platforms.[30] Instagram poses significant risks to adolescent mental health. Studies indicate that using this platform can elevate the likelihood of Depression and anxiety, Difficulty sleeping, Issues with body image, Exposure to online harassment and bullying.[31]

Instagram and issues related to sexuality

Research shows using social media a lot connects to sexual problems like starting sex early, seeing porn, and sexting.[1,2,32] Using social media more links to feeling worse about yourself, getting bullied online, seeing porn, and doing risky sex things.[33] Big social media use means more sexting, cyberbullying, no privacy, and being too into the Internet, all of which can make you feel unwell.[34]

Instagram and online grooming

Online grooming can be defined as a situation in which an adult establishes a relationship with a minor, finalized to a sexual abuse, using social media. It is important to underline that victims have a risk to develop post-traumatic stress disorder, which may finally affect the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents. Children are more vulnerable online because they often escape the control of their parents and may be more ready to share information or pictures about themselves than in real life. Online grooming is easier to perform in comparison with offline sexual abuse because of the technology and accessibility of the internet. Moreover, often the perpetrator misrepresents himself as another child or teenager in order to build a trusting relationship. Teenage girls seem to be more at risk, although the proportion of male victims is considerable too. In general, minors with problematic internet use are at greater risk of being groomed. Sexual solicitation was more common among children spending more time on the internet on weekdays, being engaged in sexting, having strangers in the list of friends in social networks, playing online games, and chatting. The risk is high even for adolescents whose curiosity and unconsciousness expose them to the risk of deception.[20]

Positive impact of Instagram on adolescent mental health: While there are concerns about the negative impact of Instagram on adolescent mental health, it is essential to note that Instagram can also have a positive impact. For example, through Instagram, adolescents can connect with supportive communities and find inspiration and motivation. They can also use Instagram to raise awareness about mental health issues and advocate for change.

Role of Instagram in Adolescent Socialization: Instagram plays a significant role in adolescent socialization. It provides a platform for adolescents to communicate, connect, and form relationships with friends and peers.

Using Instagram, teens reinforce connections with current friends and create new ones online. This helps them overcome social isolation and loneliness. Additionally, Instagram provides a platform for teens to share their feelings and receive support from their online community. Additionally, Instagram can serve as a platform for promoting mental health awareness and support. By sharing personal stories, experiences, and resources related to mental health, users on Instagram can contribute to reducing stigma and providing a sense of community for those who may be experiencing mental health issues. Participation in the Body Positive Movement on Instagram can provide a positive outlet for self-expression for young women, promoting body size/image and love.[20]

Instagram and Vaping Intervention: One potential use of Instagram in the context of adolescent mental health is as a platform for promoting interventions and education regarding vaping. By utilizing the reach and visual appeal of Instagram, educational content about the dangers of vaping can be shared in a relatable and engaging manner. Additionally, Instagram can be used to connect with users who may be struggling with vaping addiction and provide them with resources, support, and messages of encouragement. Instagram can play a significant role in health education and prevention strategies for adolescent anemia.[35]

Instagram and Research: Instagram shall be used to identify and enroll them in various online-based intervention programs, e.g., cyberbullying intervention programs.[36] According to Noon, comparing oneself to others on Instagram based on skills and opinions can potentially foster a sense of self for teenagers. Despite this, more research is necessary to establish this connection and gain a deeper understanding of the correlation between Instagram social comparisons and identity formation in adolescents.[37] Using Instagram can help teenagers get involved in online research, especially when the content is created with their input and participation.[38]

Managing adolescent mental health in the Instagram era: Managing adolescent mental health in the Instagram era requires a multi-faceted approach that balances the benefits and potential risks of social media use.[39]

Potential interventions for healthy Instagram use: One potential intervention for promoting healthy Instagram use among adolescents is to educate them about the potential adverse effects of excessive use and encourage mindful and intentional use of the platform. This can include teaching adolescents about the importance of setting boundaries, taking breaks from social media, and engaging in offline activities. Additionally, fostering open communication between parents, educators, and adolescents about social media use and its impact on mental health can create a supportive environment where adolescents feel comfortable discussing their experiences and seeking guidance or support.

Recommendations for parents: Recommendations for parents include actively engaging in conversations with their adolescents about social media use, setting clear guidelines and boundaries regarding screen time and the use of Instagram, monitoring their adolescents’ online activity, and modeling healthy social media behavior.[4] In addition, parents should educate themselves about the potential risks and benefits of Instagram use for adolescent mental health and stay updated on the latest research and recommendations. Another recommendation for parents is to encourage their adolescents to cultivate a positive and diverse social media feed on Instagram.[40] This can be done by following accounts that promote body positivity, mental health awareness, and healthy coping strategies. Adolescents’ behavior on Instagram was significantly influenced by parenting practices, attitudes, and perceived control over their child’s social media behavior.[18] This suggests the critical role of parental influence in managing and controlling adolescents’ activities on Instagram to mitigate cyberbullying.[40] When young people compare themselves to similar others on Instagram, the results can be more encouraging. This indicates the importance of carefully selecting who you follow online to create a positive social media environment.[41]

Recommendations for teachers: Recommendations for teachers include incorporating lessons on digital citizenship and responsible social media use into their curriculum, teaching students critical thinking skills to help them navigate the filtered realities of social media, and Establishing a classroom where students are confident enough to share their social media experiences and seek help when necessary by fostering an atmosphere of security and encouragement. Additionally, teachers can collaborate with parents and school administrators to develop policies and strategies that promote a healthy balance of technology use, including social media, both inside and outside the classroom.

Future research: Future research should delve into the lasting impact of Instagram use on the mental health of young Indians. Longitudinal studies can track individuals’ mental well-being over time, observing how Instagram usage and exposure to social comparison shape their outcomes. Furthermore, research should evaluate interventions and strategies that aim to mitigate the adverse effects of social media on mental health. Future studies should explore the impact of other social media channels, like Facebook and Twitter, on the mental health of young people. Understanding the specific mechanisms through which social media use affects mental health, such as the role of peer influence or the impact of exposure to idealized images, is also an important area for future research. Future research should also explore the cultural, social, and economic factors influencing the relationship between Instagram use and mental health outcomes in different populations. Further research is needed to explore and gain a deeper understanding of how Instagram usage, as a specific social media platform, influences mental health among young people.[42]

Conclusion

This research emphasizes the crucial need to examine the effects of social media, specifically Instagram, on the mental well-being of adolescents.[43] This research focuses on social media’s effects on teenagers. Although there are advantages, the disadvantages are more than the advantages. Adults are also affected by social media, this article presents various research results indicating how they can impact people in general. Moreover, they may even heighten chances of developing mental health issues and harm their welfare too. It is evident that heavy use of Instagram can be associated with poor mental health outcomes, increased internalizing symptoms, and various social issues such as social comparison and colorism.[44] Given the pervasive influence of social media in the daily lives of young adults, it is essential for individuals, parents, teachers, and lawmakers to be mindful of the potential risks and actively promote responsible technology use habits that strike a healthy balance. This includes implementing strategies that educate young adults about responsible social media use, providing resources for mental health support, and promoting positive body image and self-esteem. Moreover, it is essential for social media platforms like Instagram to take responsibility and implement measures that protect users from bullying, harassment, and exposure to harmful content.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.