Involving youth in the discussions and solutions around social media and youth mental health is a key aspect of the work that we do. The Center of Excellence (CoE) Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) is made up of 20 diverse youth, ages 14 to 19, from across the country.

YAP members provide thought leadership and guidance by sharing their experiences, ideas, and insights about social media and mental health. Their input informs how the CoE creates messages, resources, and tools that are useful for teens and for parents, teachers, clinicians, and others. By working closely with the YAP, the CoE ensures that our activities and resources are centered around what youth need and want.  

Youth in Action 

Our first cohort of teens were carefully chosen from a nationwide pool of applicants to reflect a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. YAP members actively contribute to the work of the CoE by:   

  • Advising on activities of the CoE;    
  • Creating content  – individually and collectively;    
  • Providing feedback on items such as policies, procedures, and educational materials; and     
  • Participating in external meetings, conferences, presentations, virtual events, and other outreach opportunities to make sure the youth perspective is included.

 

Meet the 2023-2024 Youth Advisory Panel

 

YAP Advice for Policymakers

"Acknowledge that social media has both positive and negative aspects. Advocate for promoting mental health resources within social media platforms."

- Taanvi A., Youth Advisory Panel

 

Read more about what the YAP has to say about creating programs, policies, and regulation.

Read

YAP Advice for the Tech Industry

"I would encourage the design of platforms that prioritize user well-being, including features that encourage breaks, mindfulness, and meaningful social interactions over passive scrolling and negative comparison."

- Ronit C., Youth Advisory Panel  

 
Read more about what the Youth Advisory Panel has to say about social media platform design.

Read

 

 

 

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.

Last Updated

05/28/2024

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics