Examining the Impact of AI-Enhanced Social Media Content on Adolescent Well-being in the Digital Age

Abstract

In the digital age, the impact of social media on adolescent well-being is a growing concern. This study investigated the influence of AI-analysed Social Media Content, Digital Literacy, Parental Monitoring of Social Media Use, and Social Media Engagement on Adolescent Well-being and Depressive Symptoms., Data was collected from 398 adolescents in Pakistan through a structured questionnaire survey., Four hypotheses were tested to examine these relationships., The findings highlighted that positive online content positively affected Adolescent Well-being, emphasizing the importance of promoting such content for better mental health., However, digital literacy had a negative impact, highlighting the need for critical online content evaluation while avoiding potential harm., Parental monitoring was found to have a positive association with Adolescent Well-being, acting as a buffer against harmful online content., Conversely, excessive Social Media Engagement negatively affects Adolescent Well-being, leading to isolation and anxiety., This study contributes by explaining the complex links between social media engagement and adolescent well-being, emphasizing the need for promoting positive content, enhancing digital literacy, and encouraging parental involvement to support adolescents in the digital era., Policy implications include the promotion of positive online content, the development of effective digital literacy programs, and support for parental involvement to safeguard adolescent well-being in the digital age.