Topic Dossier

Teen Happiness Declines in Western Countries Amid Social Media Rise

First article: 20 mar. 2026, 06:06 | Last update: 20 mar. 2026, 17:51 | 2 sources | 2 articles

Multiple sources. Less manipulation.

Editorial Analysis

Based on 2 sources, 2 articles

A recent study has highlighted a concerning trend: a decline in teen happiness in Western countries, coinciding with a rise in social media consumption. Researchers suggest a possible connection between the two, raising questions about the impact of social media on adolescent mental health and well-being. The study's findings add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that excessive social media use may have negative consequences for young people.

Articles about this topic

Teen happiness falls in western countries as social media hours rise Foto: ABC Australia
ABC Australia 20 mar. 2026, 06:06 (17 hours ago) Excellent

Teen happiness falls in western countries as social media hours rise

The 2026 World Happiness Report links heavy social media use to a sharp decline in young people's wellbeing, with teenage girls in English-speaking countries and Western Europe among the most affected. 

Read on ABC Australia →
'Harm at a population level': World Happiness Report flags social media's negative impact Foto: France 24
France 24 20 mar. 2026, 17:51 (5 hours ago)

'Harm at a population level': World Happiness Report flags social media's negative impact

Young people have a “much lower” level of wellbeing than 15 years ago due to the effects of social media use, according to the 2026 edition of the World Happiness Report, which sees Finland maintain its position as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year.

Read on France 24 →