From Scroll to Stalk: Analyzing Social Media’s Impact on Teen Cyberstalking Patterns

As social media becomes an integral part of teenage life, the boundaries between casual browsing and invasive digital behavior are increasingly blurred. This study investigates the development of cyberstalking habits among teenagers as a byproduct of excessive social media engagement. Drawing on qualitative data collected through interviews and observational analysis, the research explores how features such as algorithmic content delivery, platform interactivity, and peer validation contribute to a culture of surveillance and digital obsession. Findings indicate that teenagers often engage in cyberstalking behaviors, such as compulsively tracking peers, ex-partners, or influencers, without recognizing the ethical or psychological implications. The study underscores the role of platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat in normalizing these behaviors through design choices that prioritize visibility, connectivity, and constant access. These insights call for more informed digital literacy education and parental guidance, as well as platform accountability in mitigating online behavioral risks among youth. This research contributes to the growing discourse on social media’s psychological impact and highlights the urgent need to address emerging patterns of digital surveillance among adolescents.