Steve Scaffidi begins a new Scaffidiology series examining the impact of social media on our culture, mental health and everyday lives. He is joined by Mike Zussman, an adolescent and adult therapist, to discuss how social media affects young people, including cyberbullying, social connections, screen time and the developing adolescent brain.
Sussman explains why social media is not entirely harmful, noting that it can help young people build meaningful relationships when they struggle to connect in person. But he also details the unique dangers of cyberbullying, the power of social media algorithms and the challenges parents face in helping their children develop healthy habits.
“The adolescent brain is not capable of full-on censorship from pleasure-seeking. We’re putting this thing in front of them at a period in development when they want more and more pleasure.”
The Scaffidiology Podcast is available on the podcast page or wherever you get your podcasts.
Steve Scaffidi is also the host of Point Taken on 620 WTMJ, which airs from 10-2, weekdays on 620 WTMJ.
