jasdooit

TOKYO – A new study conducted by a medical institution indicates that 7% of Japanese individuals between the ages of 10 and 19 may be considered “pathological users” of social media, implying they are excessively dependent and struggle to limit their time spent online.

A national survey carried out by the National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center also revealed that the number for that age group was the highest.

Certain study results indicate connections between social media usage and criminal behavior as well as mental health challenges in young individuals.

To shield minors from the negative impacts of social media, nations like Australia and Indonesia have implemented restrictions preventing individuals under 16 from accessing these platforms. The Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, along with the Children and Families Agency, are also exploring ways to address this concern.

A study carried out in January and February 2025 by a medical institution located in Kanagawa Prefecture, close to Tokyo, involved 9,000 individuals aged 10 to 79 selected at random across 400 sites throughout the country, with 4,650 responses collected.

The questionnaire included nine questions, such as “Have you attempted to decrease (social media) usage without success?” and “Have you deceived your friends or family regarding the amount of time you spent?”

Individuals who answered yes to at least five of the questions could be considered addicted to social media, as stated by the center, which employed a technique created abroad.

Seven percent of participants between the ages of 10 and 19 exceeded that threshold, in contrast to 4.7 percent in their 20s, 1.1 percent in their 30s, 0.8 percent in their 40s, and 0.6 percent in their 50s.

Among those believed to have issues with social media, 30 percent reported spending “six hours or more” online during weekdays, while 62 percent said the same for weekends.

The center recommends that families establish guidelines for children’s smartphone usage before acquiring the device, outlining the times and locations where the phone can be used along with the repercussions for violating the rules. It also encourages parents to serve as a “positive role model.”