German Teens Struggle With Excessive Social Media Use, Study Finds
A recent study by the Vodafone Foundation has revealed concerning trends in German teens' social media use. Conducted from April 28 to May 18, 2025, the survey of 1,046 participants found that many teens struggle with excessive use and lack of guidance. The study, titled 'Zwischen Bildschirmzeit und Selbstregulation β soziale Medien im Alltag von Jugendlichen', uncovered that 69 percent of teens spend more than two hours daily on social media, with over 27 percent using it for at least five hours. Despite this, 53 percent of respondents reported no rules for social media use at home, and 51 percent said they learn nothing about it at school. Teens are not oblivious to their excessive use. Sixty-one percent feel they spend too much time on social media, neglecting other tasks. Many independently develop strategies to reduce usage, such as turning off notifications or avoiding social media during study times. They also regularly reflect on their behavior. However, this self-regulation is not enough to prevent distressing feelings, with 29 percent experiencing digital stress and guilt. The impact is more pronounced among young women. Fifty-two percent reported experiences of exclusion and devaluation, compared to 31 percent of men. Almost three-quarters of German teens spend more time on social media than they would like, highlighting the need for intervention. The study underscores the urgent need for education and guidance on responsible social media use. Over 80 percent of students wish for lessons or projects to teach them how to navigate platforms healthily. With teens already taking steps to self-regulate, providing them with the right tools and knowledge could significantly improve their relationship with social media.
