Home / Technology / Social Media Giants Accused of 'Drug Pusher' Tactics on Teens
Social Media Giants Accused of 'Drug Pusher' Tactics on Teens
26 Nov
Summary
- Internal documents reveal companies knew platforms were addictive to teens.
- Lawsuit alleges deliberate design features maximize youth engagement for profit.
- School districts claim social media fuels a youth mental health crisis.
Hundreds of school districts and individuals across the United States have filed a lawsuit against social media companies, including Meta, TikTok, and Snap. Recently unsealed legal filings quote internal company documents and employee testimony alleging that these platforms were deliberately designed to maximize youth engagement, driving advertising revenue.
Internal research and communications reportedly reveal that Meta researchers described Instagram as a "drug" and "pushers," while TikTok noted minors lack the "executive mental function to control their screen time." Snapchat executives allegedly acknowledged their platform "dominates" addicted users' lives.
The lawsuit asserts that these platforms have contributed to a growing youth mental health crisis, placing a burden on schools to provide counseling and resources. The tech companies are seeking to dismiss the case, with spokespeople stating the allegations paint a misleading picture and that they have implemented safety features.
