THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION ON MENTAL HEALTH AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

The aim of this article is to examine the impact of social media addiction on an adolescent’s mental health and academic performance. To achieve this, we have used methods of observation, generalization of independent characteristics, and case studies. Observations were conducted in two schools in Yerevan, involving 165 teenagers. Additionally, approximately 70 teachers and parents were interviewed to assess the impact of social media on students’ mental health and academic performance. The research found out that the addiction to social networks significantly affects teenagers’ mental health. Specifically, 82% of teachers and parents reported negative effects such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, 64% of the respondents noted that social media interferes with the educational process. The case study revealed that high levels of social media addiction can lead to serious issues such as irritability, academic decline, and poor mental health. Thus, this article addresses a critical issue for contemporary society by applying research methods, which ensures the originality and reliability of the findings. The study also emphasizes the need for balanced social media use and targeted interventions to mitigate its negative effects.