Instagram Chief Denies Social Media Addiction Claims

Mosseri testifies that he disagrees with the idea that people can be clinically addicted to social media platforms.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Adam Mosseri, the head of Meta's Instagram, testified during a landmark social media trial in Los Angeles that he disagrees with the idea that people can be clinically addicted to social media platforms. Mosseri said it's important to differentiate between clinical addiction and what he called 'problematic use' of social media. The question of addiction is a key pillar of the case, where plaintiffs seek to hold social media companies responsible for harms to children who use their platforms.

Why it matters

This case could set a precedent for how thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies are handled, as the plaintiffs argue that social media platforms are responsible for harms to children. Mosseri's testimony on the issue of addiction is a crucial part of Meta's defense strategy.

The details

Mosseri said he disagrees with the idea that people can be clinically addicted to social media, though he acknowledged that 'problematic use' of social media does occur. He said he was not claiming to be a medical expert, but said someone 'very close' to him has experienced serious clinical addiction, which is why he said he was 'being careful with my words.' Mosseri and the plaintiff's lawyer also engaged in a lengthy discussion about Instagram's use of cosmetic filters that can promote body dysmorphia.

  • The trial is taking place in Los Angeles in 2026.

The players

Adam Mosseri

The head of Meta's Instagram, who testified during the trial.

Mark Lanier

The plaintiff's lawyer in the case.

Phyllis Jones

The Meta lawyer who questioned Mosseri during the trial.

Mark Zuckerberg

The CEO of Meta, who is expected to take the stand next week.

KGM

A 20-year-old plaintiff whose lawsuit could determine how thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies would play out.

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What they’re saying

“We are trying to be as safe as possible but also censor as little as possible.”

— Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram

“Often people try to frame things as you either prioritize safety or you prioritize revenue. It's really hard to imagine any instance where prioritizing safety isn't good for revenue.”

— Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram

What’s next

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to take the stand next week in the trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around the potential harms of social media, particularly for young users, and whether social media companies can be held legally responsible for those harms. Mosseri's testimony on the issue of addiction is a key part of Meta's defense strategy as it seeks to avoid setting a precedent that could impact thousands of similar lawsuits.