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Chico Today
By the People, for the People
Young woman testifies about childhood social media addiction in landmark trial
Case against Meta and YouTube could impact thousands of similar lawsuits against tech giants
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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A 20-year-old woman, identified as KGM, took the stand in a landmark trial against social media companies Meta and YouTube, testifying about her experience using their platforms as a child. KGM, also known as Kaley, said she was on social media 'all day long' starting as young as 6 years old on YouTube and 9 years old on Instagram, which she claims led to depression, suicidal thoughts, and an addiction to the technology.
Why it matters
This case, along with two others, has been selected as a bellwether trial, meaning its outcome could impact how thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies are likely to play out. The case highlights growing concerns about the impact of social media on young users' mental health and the potential for tech platforms to be deliberately designed to be addictive.
The details
Kaley testified that the features of the platforms, like notifications, gave her a 'rush' and that she would frequently check them during school, something she still does. She also said she would set up multiple accounts to 'look popular' by liking and commenting on her own posts. Kaley's attorneys argue the platforms preyed on her as a vulnerable user, while Meta and YouTube have argued she turned to their platforms as a coping mechanism for her existing mental health struggles.
- Kaley started using YouTube at age 6 and Instagram at age 9.
- Kaley's treatment with a former therapist lasted about 6 months and took place 7 years ago.
The players
KGM (Kaley)
A 20-year-old woman who is the plaintiff in the landmark trial against social media giants Meta and YouTube, testifying about her experience using their platforms as a child.
Meta
One of the remaining defendants in the case, along with YouTube. The social media company has argued that Kaley faced significant challenges before using their platform.
YouTube
The other remaining defendant in the case, along with Meta. The Google-owned platform is being sued alongside Meta.
Mark Lanier
Kaley's attorney who is representing her in the trial.
Paul Schmidt
Meta's lawyer who has argued that the core question is whether the platforms were a substantial factor in Kaley's mental health struggles.
What they’re saying
“I just felt like I wanted to be on it all the time, and if I wasn't on it, I felt like I was going to miss out on something.”
— Kaley (ksgf.com)
“Every single day, I was on it all day long.”
— Kaley (ksgf.com)
“I don't think that applies here.”
— Mark Zuckerberg, Meta CEO (ksgf.com)
What’s next
The case is expected to continue for several more weeks, and the outcome the jury reaches could shape the outcome of a slew of similar lawsuits against social media companies. Meta is also facing a separate trial in New Mexico.
The takeaway
This landmark trial highlights the growing concerns about the impact of social media on young users' mental health and the potential for tech platforms to be deliberately designed to be addictive. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how social media companies are held accountable for the harm their platforms may cause to vulnerable users.
