Is your child really “addicted” to social media, or is something else going on? New research found that while many teens say they feel addicted to platforms like TikTok and Instagram, only a small percentage show signs of clinically problematic use. Even more surprising, most teens who reported feeling addicted were happy, socially connected, and doing well. This article explores what the research actually says, why labels matter, and the questions parents should be asking in

Dopamine isn’t digital heroin—online behavior is complex, and problematic use isn’t the same as addiction; evidence calls for balance, not fear.