Lawyers contend that features like infinite scrolling and algorithmic notifications have fueled a mental health crisis among minors
Meta, Snap, TikTok, and YouTube will be under intense legal scrutiny this week.
Jury selection starts today in Los Angeles in a closely watched case against the social media giants, brought by a 19-year-old known as KGM and her mother, who allege the platforms were deliberately designed to be addictive and worsened KGM’s mental health.
The plaintiff claims she became addicted to these services as early as age eight. She says the platforms’ attention-grabbing designs caused severe depression, body-image issues, and suicidal thoughts.
Lawyers contend that features like infinite scrolling and algorithmic notifications have fueled a mental health crisis among minors, leading to severe anxiety, depression, and self-harm.
The plaintiff seeks to hold the companies liable for personal injuries.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri are expected to testify in court. Meanwhile, Snap had settled last week.
Social media companies maintain that there is no proven scientific link between tech use and clinical addiction. They also intend to rely on Section 230 of the federal law, which typically shields platforms from liability for user-generated content.
The legal battles are drawing comparisons to the landmark lawsuits against Big Tobacco and Big Pharma in the 1990s.
A ruling could redefine digital liability and force a radical shift in how social media operates for children. It may also trigger an avalanche of similar claims from across the country.
After Australia banned social media for kids under 16, France is also contemplating a similar move for adolescents under 15. The UK is also considering restrictions for users under 16.