In our digital age, social media is embedded in the daily lives of young people. Apps like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp dominate the online spaces where teens socialize, entertain themselves, and form their identities. Frankly, I wish we could do away with social media entirely; however, it is here—and I’m afraid it’s not only here to stay but to grow.

How Much Time Are U.S. Teens Spending on Social Media?

The numbers are sobering—and growing:

A 2023 Gallup Poll found that 51% of U.S. teens spend an average of 4.8 hours per day on social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X.

Usage increases with age:

• 13-year-olds average 4.1 hours/day

• 17-year-olds average 5.8 hours/day

Gender differences are also significant:

• Girls average 5.3 hours/day

• Boys average 4.4 hours/day

In short: Many U.S. teens spend 5 to 6 hours daily on social media—some significantly more. That’s nearly one-third of their waking hours devoted to digital platforms.

Why It Matters: Mental Health Consequences

A JAMA Psychiatry (2019) study revealed that adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media are at a much higher risk of experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, and poor self-esteem.

The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory echoed these concerns, warning that excessive social media use can fuel body image struggles, disrupt sleep, and intensify feelings of isolation among teens.

Rather than providing connection, social media often amplifies comparison and self-doubt. God’s Word speaks directly against this trap:

"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well."

— Psalm 139:14 Relationships in the Digital World

Although social media promises greater connection, it often leaves teens more isolated. A 2022 Pew Research

Center survey showed that while teens are “constantly connected” online, many still report feeling alone or misunderstood.

Scripture reminds us:

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."

— Proverbs 27:17

Authentic, Christ-centered relationships—grounded in accountability and love—cannot be replaced by likes or fleeting digital exchanges.

Kingdom Education: Discipleship in a Digital World

Kingdom Education provides a biblical lens to help students navigate these pressures. It is not enough to simply warn of the dangers; we must equip and disciple young people to filter all media through God’s Word.

"Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..."

— Romans 12:2

Social media presses students toward conformity, but Kingdom Education calls them to be transformed by truth. Through home, church, and school working together, we can disciple youth to:

• Pursue holiness over popularity

• Choose service over self-promotion

• Build identity in Christ, not digital approval

A Call to Parents, Educators, and Church Leaders

Given how much time U.S. teens now spend online—and the clear mental health costs—we must respond intentionally:

• Model wise habits – Show that digital tools are servants, not masters.

• Prioritize open conversations – Encourage honest dialogue about struggles with social media.

• Ground identity in Christ – Remind teens daily that their worth is not in likes but in God’s love.

• Foster in-person community – Encourage friendships and discipleship that sharpen and build faith.

With U.S. teens spending nearly 5–6 hours per day on social media, the risks are real and growing. Yet through Kingdom Education, we can raise a generation anchored not in screens but in Scripture—not in fleeting trends, but in eternal truth.

Mr. Euler has 27 years’ experience working in Christian Schools, 17 as a Head of School and is currently the Head of School at Word of God Academy, Shreveport, LA., a ministry of Word of God Ministries.

Website www.wogacademy.org

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