US Court to Hear Parents’ Claims Against Social Media Giants Over Teen Mental Health Crisis
Washington, Agency — Social media companies have long faced allegations of harming young people’s mental health, which they have consistently denied.
Now, for the first time, these companies will stand before a court to answer such claims.
A top court in Los Angeles, United States, will hear the case, allowing parents to voice their concerns.
Karen Glenn, the mother of a 19-year-old boy identified as KGM from California, has filed a lawsuit against Meta, TikTok, Snap, Google, and YouTube.
She has accused the companies of creating addictive content that traps children into constant usage, directly damaging their mental well-being.
According to the complaint, the platforms not only encourage excessive engagement but also push children toward self-harm and even suicidal behavior.
Parents, health experts, and members of society have for years warned that the habit of endlessly scrolling through social media disrupts children’s sleep, exposes them to bullying, and weakens their self-confidence.
However, the companies allegedly failed to take these concerns seriously.
When parents’ voices finally reached the US Congress, the companies issued apologies to families who claimed their children lost their lives due to social media influence — but, critics argue, no meaningful action followed.
TikTok and Snap reportedly reached confidential settlements before the trial began, a move that may serve as a warning to other companies.
Meta, TikTok, and YouTube could now face intense scrutiny in court.
Key Allegations
The companies developed technologies designed to hold users’ attention for extended periods so that children repeatedly open and engage with the apps.
These techniques have negatively impacted sleep patterns, learning abilities, and self-confidence.
By offering services for free, the companies strengthened systems that promote addiction.
The petitioner argues that ensuring children’s safety is the responsibility of these companies, a duty they have failed to fulfill properly.
Reports That Have Raised Concerns
A report by the University of North Carolina states that excessive social media use is harming children’s thinking, comprehension, and logical abilities.
Stanford School of Medicine has observed symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, restlessness, and anger among children.
A Research survey revealed that 48 percent of teenagers themselves admitted that social media harms them.
The Next Six Weeks Are Crucial
With parents’ legal battle now reaching the courts, the coming six weeks are considered extremely important. Sarah Gardner, CEO of the NGO Heat Initiative, said that for the first time, a court will truly listen to the pain and struggles of parents.
A Mother’s Every Effort Failed
KGM began using social media at the age of ten. His mother attempted to block the apps using third-party software, yet he continued accessing them despite her efforts.
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