Media release: High levels of problematic use and strong support for social media age limits among NZ teens

New survey findings show that problematic social media use is widespread among Aotearoa NZ teenagers, with many exhibiting patterns that mirror addictive behaviour. The results come as the government considers introducing a minimum access age of 16 years.

The latest Public Health Communication Centre Briefing outlines the results of the survey of 540 teens aged 13–17. It found that 22% meet criteria for problematic use and over a third fall into a risky category. 

Briefing lead author, Dr Samantha Marsh says problematic social media use is associated with loss of control, interference with daily activities and difficulty disengaging. International evidence links such addictive use with poorer sleep, loneliness, depression, anxiety, stress and reduced attention.

Social media is almost universal among teens in Aotearoa, with most beginning between ages 10 and 13. Dr Marsh from the University of Auckland says nearly half of the teens reported that social media disrupts homework, daily routines, family time and sleep. “Interestingly, many reflected negatively on their early exposure. Half of the teens say they started on social media too young and almost four in ten wished social media had never been invented.”

As the government investigates whether to set a minimum access age of 16 years, the survey shows strong support for such a policy. Support among teens reached 47% with just a quarter opposing restrictions. Support rose to 77% among caregivers. Caregivers also identified an age limit as the most helpful measure to support them in managing their child’s online behaviour.

Teens outlined what would help if an age restriction were introduced, says Dr Marsh. “So teens are worried about getting off social media if the restriction is brought in. Many supported school-based education to guide the transition and practical advice for parents. Almost half said they would value safe, supervised online platforms designed for younger users.