Pediatric and adolescent providers can integrate conversations about media use into health consultations with increased confidence knowing that their acknowledgement and guidance can have a positive influence on youth and families. A healthy relationship with a trusted adult is a protective factor for youth mental health and many youth trust health care providers’ expertise. Talk about social media in the spirit of health and wellness, not judgment and control. Engage with youth and their caregivers by demonstrating curiosity and offering your partnership.

View our tips and recommendations for facilitating conversations with youth based on the details provided in each case scenario below.

Case Scenarios

Alexander, Age 15: Family Use of Technology and Social Media
Alexander is 15 years old and identifies as Latino and male. He recently immigrated with his family to the U.S. from Colombia and speaks both English and Spanish fluently. He is just starting to set up social media accounts for his family so they can be more connected. They are not that familiar with the various platforms and aren’t sure who or what to trust online.
Kayla, Age 16: Recording and Posting Videos Online
Kayla is 16 years old and identifies as Black/African American and female. She uses social media mostly to watch makeup tutorials. She recently started recording and posting her own videos so she can help younger girls with similar skin tones feel more confident.
Kai, Age 17: Anxiety Symptoms
Kai, a 17-year-old, presents to his provider with anxiety symptoms. Kai completed the GAD-7 and did not meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder. After the provider reviews health history and completes assessments and other routine services, they engage the youth in a conversation that includes social media use.
Jordan, Age 12: Sports Physical and Social Media Use
Jordan, who is 12 years old, is accompanied by his caregiver for his sports physical. As the provider reviews immunizations and other health history, they include social media use in the conversation.
Last Updated

12/18/2024

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics

 

Funding for the Center of Excellence was made possible by Grant No. SM087180 from SAMHSA of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, SAMHSA/HHS or the US Government.