Facebook overuse may lead to psychological disorders in teenagers, says APA study

Updated on 11-Aug-2011

Facebook is highly popular among today’s youth that spends a lot of time updating their status, sharing photos, chatting and playing games on the social network. But a new study says that Facbook is turning teenagers into narcissists, and that overuse of the social network can cause physical and mental disorders in young users. However, the study highlights that the social network has been highly beneficial for introverts.

Dr. Larry D. Rosen, professor of psychology at California State University, says that excessive usage of the anything whether it is a video game or a social network, has an adverse effect on health. “While nobody can deny that Facebook has altered the landscape of social interaction, particularly among young people, we are just now starting to see solid psychological research demonstrating both the positives and the negatives,” says Rosen.

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Rosen says that the study reveals the social network has the potential to deliver adverse impact on health. According to the study, teens who use Facebook excessively show more narcissistic tendencies, while young adults are vulnerable to other psychological disorders including antisocial behaviours.

The study further says excessive exposure to media and technology has an adverse impact on the health of the kids and teenagers, contributing to disorders such as anxiety and depression. In addition, Facebook can affect studies as well. The study found that the middle school, high school and college students who accessed Facebook after every 15 minutes scored low grades.

However, the study shows that Facebook has been beneficial as well. According to the study, young adults who have a strong Facebook presence are good at expressing “virtual empathy” to their online friends. Facebook can help introvert young adults socialise and come out of their shell. And the social networking can also be used for interactive learning for the teenagers.

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