Have you ever opened a social media app to watch just one video, but then ended up scrolling for an hour? That is not an accident. Social media apps are designed to keep people watching, clicking, and scrolling. One big reason is something called an algorithm. An algorithm is a set of rules that computers use to make decisions. On social media, algorithms decide what videos, photos and posts appear on your screen. They learn from what you do online and try to show you more of the same kinds of content.1
Every time someone likes a post, watches a video, leaves a comment, or shares something, the app collects information about what they enjoy. Even small actions matter. If a child pauses on a video for a few seconds or rewatches it, the platform notices. If they quickly scroll past something, the app notices that too. The goal of the algorithm is simple: keep users on the app as long as possible. Social media platforms use many different signals to decide what to show users.1
- Likes help apps understand what topics people enjoy
- Comments are even more important because they take more effort
- Shares are powerful because they tell the app that someone thinks the content is worthwhile
- Video apps also pay close attention to watch time
- Apps also track “dwell time” (how long someone looks at a post before scrolling away)
Over time, the app builds a profile of the user’s interests and then it fills their feed with similar content. Even though social media has benefits, algorithms can also create problems.1
- Endless Scrolling: Since apps always show new content, it can be hard to stop watching. Children and teens are especially vulnerable because their brains are still developing.
- Poor Self-Esteem. Kids may compare themselves to influencers or classmates who are popular online. If their posts do not get many likes or comments, they may feel left out or upset.
- Misinformation “Fake News”: Algorithms do not always care if information is true. They mostly care about engagement. Emotional or shocking posts often spread quickly and increase views.
- Echo Chambers: This happens when users only see content that matches what they already believe or enjoy. Over time, different opinions disappear from their feed.
The good news is that families can take steps to build healthier online habits. One important step is talking openly about social media. Parents can explain how algorithms work and why apps keep recommending certain types of content. Parents can also use parental controls to limit inappropriate content and manage screen time. Turning off push notifications can help reduce constant checking of apps. Most importantly, families should balance online time with real-world activities like sports, reading, hobbies, and spending time together. If you are interested in becoming an Advocate for the Innocent member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/.
1 – https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/how-to-help-kids-outsmart-social-media/
2 – Image by Freepik