UTA Study Tracks Teens’ Every Click—And the Findings Could Change Everything

This fall, researchers from The University of Texas at Arlington, in collaboration with the University of North Texas Health Science Center, will launch a study examining how teens’ daily experiences on social media impact their mental health and potential substance use. Led by Professor Karrie Curry and supported by UTA Social Work Professors Melissa Lewis and Dana Litt, the team will track 250 adolescents from across Texas, collecting data through daily surveys over six weeks. The study aims to uncover how specific interactions, not just time spent online, relate to anxiety, depression, and risky behavior.

Unlike past studies that emphasize screen time, this research focuses on the nature of the content teens view, share, and engage with online. “We’re going to look at specific engagement with content related to the health behaviors we’re interested in,” said Dr. Dana Litt to UTA, “Is a teen just viewing content about substance use or mental health, or are they sharing it? Does that difference matter? We’re trying to understand exactly what about it is risky across certain days and over time.”

Researchers will assess whether different types of social media involvement, such as viewing versus sharing content about mental health or substance use, have varying impacts on behavior. A 12-month follow-up will help determine if these short-term experiences contribute to longer-term health risks.

The findings could shape future prevention efforts and guide parents in having more balanced, productive conversations about digital life. Rather than reacting with concern alone, researchers suggest parents ask thoughtful questions about what teens enjoy or struggle with online. Ultimately, the study is poised to inform strategies that protect adolescent mental health while recognizing the complex role social media plays in their lives.