Families Sue Social Media Giants Over Alleged Addiction Harms

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A major trial has kicked off in Los Angeles where hundreds of families are suing social media giants Meta, TikTok, Snap, and YouTube. The plaintiffs allege that the companies intentionally designed their products to be addictive, leading to depression, eating disorders, self-harm, and other mental health issues in young users. The lawyers are using the tobacco playbook, comparing social media to cigarettes. However, a new study suggests that 'social media addiction' may not actually be a recognized clinical condition, and that people may be dramatically overestimating whether they're truly addicted.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing concerns around the potential harms of social media, especially for young users. It also raises questions about whether the 'addiction' framing is accurate or helpful, and whether social media companies should be held legally responsible for the mental health impacts of their platforms.

The details

The trial involves approximately 1,600 plaintiffs from over 350 families and 250 school districts. The plaintiffs allege that once young people become 'hooked' on social media, they fall prey to depression, eating disorders, self-harm, and other mental health issues. The lawyers are explicitly using the tobacco playbook, comparing social media to cigarettes. However, a new study suggests that only about 2% of Instagram users show symptoms that would put them at risk for addiction, even though 18% perceive themselves as addicted. The researchers found that users who see themselves as more addicted actually feel less control over their use and have made more unsuccessful attempts to change their behavior.

• The trial kicked off on Tuesday in Los Angeles superior court.

What’s next

The trial is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether the plaintiffs will be successful in their lawsuit against the social media companies.