A recent study has raised serious concerns about the long-term impact of social media on brain development and intelligence among adolescents. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), children who spend more time on social media between the ages of 9 and 13 tend to perform poorly in tests related to reading, memory, and language skills.

The study examined over 6,500 children across the United States as part of the nationwide Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) project. Researchers found that even short durations of daily social media exposure were associated with negative outcomes in learning and academic performance.

The findings highlight that the adolescent brain, still in a crucial stage of growth, may be particularly sensitive to digital exposure. This sensitivity can affect concentration, emotional regulation, and cognitive growth during critical years of mental development.

According to the study’s data, about 58% of children reported minimal use of social media, while 37% spent roughly an hour per day on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat. However, 6% admitted to using social media for three or more hours daily. Children who used social media moderately scored one to two points lower on cognitive ability tests, whereas heavy users scored up to four points lower.

Researchers believe that this time could otherwise be used more productively — for instance, doing homework, reading, or engaging in physical and social activities that promote learning and creativity. While the score differences may seem small, experts warn that their cumulative educational and developmental effects could be significant over time.

Dr. Laura Simmons, a cognitive neuroscientist and co-author of the study, explained that "early exposure to constant digital stimulation can alter the brain’s reward system, reducing the attention span and affecting how children process new information."

The research underscores the importance of establishing healthy screen habits early in life. Limiting screen time, encouraging outdoor play, setting device-free zones at home, and engaging children in offline learning can help protect cognitive growth and emotional well-being.

While the study is observational — meaning it identifies associations rather than direct causation — its results support growing global efforts to implement stricter screen-time guidelines in schools and homes. Many education experts now advocate for integrating digital literacy and wellness programs into curricula to help young users manage their relationship with technology more responsibly.

In conclusion, the study serves as a wake-up call for parents, educators, and policymakers. As digital consumption continues to rise, fostering balanced habits and mindful technology use among young people is essential to preserve not just intelligence but overall mental health and learning potential.