Author Identifier (ORCID)
Abstract
Purpose: This study explores the complex and multifaceted nature of social media use among young adolescents, drawing on the perspectives of young adolescents, parents and experts. It examines both the benefits and risks of social media and associated implications for adolescent mental health, self-development and social relationships. Methodology: A qualitative, interpretive design was utilised, using interviews across three stakeholder groups, with data analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings: The analysis identified a range of perceived opportunities, benefits and challenges associated with adolescent social media engagement. Participants highlighted its role in fostering connection, education and self-expression, alongside significant risks, including cyberbullying, destructive social comparisons and exposure to misinformation. Young adolescents’ developmental sensitivity could heighten vulnerability to these risks. The findings suggest that supporting media literacy, self-regulation and critical engagement may assist young people in navigating social media in adaptive ways. Originality: This study advances understanding of adolescent social media use by integrating multiple stakeholder perspectives and reinforcing the value of codesigned, developmentally informed interventions. These exploratory findings are intended to provide contextual insight that can help inform collaborative and developmentally informed approaches to adolescent digital well-being.
Keywords
adolescents, codesign, mental health, qualitative research, social media, youth
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
1-1-2026
Article Number
9924586
ISSN
09660410
Volume
2026
Issue
1
Publication Title
Health & Social Care in the Community
Publisher
Wiley
School
School of Arts and Humanities
Funding Information
This study was supported by Edith Cowan University.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Branch-Smith, C., Hurley, D., & Salehi, N. (2026). The complex and multifaceted nature of social media: Perspectives from young adolescents, parents and experts. Health & Social Care in the Community, 2026. https://doi.org/10.1155/hsc/9924586