New findings using SHRN data by Public Health Wales in partnership with The School Health Research Network at DECIPHer, Cardiff University reveals that over 20% of girls from lower-income families in Wales report problematic social media use. The 2023 SHRN Student Health and Well-Being Survey, involving nearly 130,000 learners, found that girls from low and middle affluence households have significantly higher rates of problematic social media use compared to boys.
Emily van de Venter, Consultant from Public Health Wales expressed concern over the impact of social media on young people’s relationships and mental health, particularly among lower affluence groups. Dr. Kelly Morgan, SHRN Director, emphasised the importance of monitoring trends to understand how social media use affects health behaviours.
