Children and adolescents across the European Union (EU) are facing a growing mental health crisis driven by the unchecked influence of algorithmic techniques. Addictive algorithms, manipulative design, exposure to harmful and illegal content and excessive screen time harm brain development, emotional resilience, and cognitive growth. Protecting children from these emerging threats and allowing young people's ability to develop self-control, resilience, and sound judgment is essential to safeguarding their future autonomy as free individuals in an open society.
Scientific evidence shows that social media use is reshaping young people’s brains, especially in areas linked to emotion, impulse control, and social behaviour. 78% of teenagers check their devices hourly; 46% do so constantly.
Compulsive and extensive use mimics addiction, triggering dopamine responses and weakening self-control. This fuels anxiety, depression, attention disorders, and social withdrawal. In younger children, excessive screen time delays emotional and language development.
