Psychologist Warns Excessive Social Media Use Harms Teenagers’ Self-Esteem

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Constant use of social media is undermining the self-esteem of adolescents, who face growing pressure to live up to unattainable beauty standards promoted on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, according to psychologist Laura Álvarez Alvarado.

Álvarez Alvarado said the problem is on the rise, particularly among minors. She noted that teenagers spend between three and four hours a day on their phones and other screens, exceeding the limits recommended by health experts and increasing their exposure to content that distorts how they view their own bodies.

Digital Filters Create Frustration and False Expectations

The psychologist said many young people believe they will not be accepted or valued unless they match the physical standards they see online, a situation that directly affects their emotional well-being.

“Teenagers get carried away by the stereotypes they see on social media and think that if they don’t have a certain appearance, they don’t fit in. That’s not right, and this trend keeps growing,” she said.

She added that filters used in apps such as TikTok and Instagram create an unrealistic image of beauty, leaving young people frustrated as they try to achieve impossible physical features. She noted that many adults and influencers have also fallen into this pattern, altering how they perceive themselves.

Limiting Phone Use Could Benefit Mental Health

Álvarez Alvarado welcomed the federal government’s proposal to regulate cellphone use in primary and secondary schools, an initiative promoted by President Claudia Sheinbaum.

She explained that cutting screen time would not only help protect children’s eyesight and improve their focus in class but would also reduce the risk of them coming into contact with strangers through social media.

She urged parents, guardians, and teachers to encourage open dialogue with teenagers to strengthen their self-esteem and remind them that what is posted on social media does not reflect reality, but rather edited and often idealized versions of life and appearance.