Dozens of US states, including California and New York, are suing Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, over allegations that the company’s social media platforms contribute to a youth mental health crisis. The lawsuits claim that Meta repeatedly misled the public about the dangers of its platforms, including Instagram, and that it knowingly induced children and teenagers into addictive and compulsive social media use.
The states argue that research has associated children’s use of Meta’s platforms with issues like depression, anxiety, insomnia, interference with education, and other negative outcomes. In response, Meta expressed disappointment in the lawsuit and argued that instead of working productively with the industry to create age-appropriate standards for apps used by teenagers, the attorneys general have chosen a different path.
The lawsuits add to the growing legal actions against social media companies regarding the impact on children and teens. Meta could face civil penalties of $1,000 to $50,000 for each violation of state laws. These lawsuits are part of a broader discussion about the influence and consequences of social media on the mental health and well-being of young users.
