A new study from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) indicates that a majority of 11- and 12-year-olds in the US are actively using TikTok and other social media platforms, despite age restrictions that typically set the minimum age at 13. Researchers also report many young users demonstrate signs of addiction to these apps, reflecting deeper concerns about mental well-being among preteens.
The research, appearing in the January issue of the journal Academic Pediatrics, draws from a sample of over 10,000 children between the ages of 11 and 15. TikTok, alongside Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat, dominated the list of platforms that children this age already use—even though official guidelines bar them from having accounts until they turn 13.
According to the study, 6.3% of 11- and 12-year-olds admitted to having a hidden account unknown to their parents. In many cases, these children showed patterns that mirror common addiction elements such as withdrawal, tolerance, and difficulty reducing screen time. Researchers found that 25% of children surveyed often think about social media apps and another 25% reported using these platforms to forget about their problems, while 17% tried to cut back but couldn’t. About 11% even acknowledged that too much social media use hurt their schoolwork.
“Policymakers need to look at TikTok as a systemic social media issue and create effective measures that protect children online,” said Dr. Jason Nagata, a pediatrician at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals and lead author of the study.
“TikTok is the most popular social media platform for children, yet kids reported having more than three different social media accounts, including Instagram and Snapchat.” Dr. Nagata added. “Our study revealed a quarter of children reported elements of addiction while using social media, with some as young as eleven years old.”
“The research shows underage social media use is linked with greater symptoms of depression, eating disorders, ADHD, and disruptive behaviors. When talking about social media usage and policies, we need to prioritize the health and safety of our children.”
The US Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments on Friday regarding Congress’ ban on TikTok. While the proceedings mainly address national security concerns, researchers encourage lawmakers to remember other issues affecting children. They point out that while concerns over data security fuel policy discussions, the study’s findings suggest policymakers should keep children’s welfare in focus.
To address the negative impacts of screen time, the American Academy of Pediatrics has introduced the Family Media Plan. This strategy gives parents and children a framework to decide on schedules for online and offline activities.
This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq