Causal pathways from social media use to adolescent cannabis use: An instrumental variable mediation analysis of behavioral problems

IV-based frequent social media use is robustly associated with increased cannabis use in adolescents, primarily through elevated externalizing behaviors. These findings highlighted the need for integrated digital and behavioral interventions targeting externalizing symptoms to mitigate substance use risk in the digital era. Enhanced parental engagement and digital literacy may further buffer against adverse outcomes associated with social media exposure.