The intense use of social networks is associated with a decrease in life satisfaction among young people, especially girls, as shown in the 2026 edition of the World Happiness Report.
According to Reuters, the analysis is based on extensive data and the correlation of multiple international studies.
Although the report does not establish a direct causal relationship, researchers say there is consistent evidence that prolonged exposure to social media can have negative effects on well-being.
Hours spent online matter
The analyzed data show significant differences between heavy users and moderate users.
15-year-old girls who use social networks for more than five hours a day reported a lower level of life satisfaction compared to those who spend less time online.
The conclusions are based on combining Gallup data with data from the OECD Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), as well as other relevant research.
Real "socialization," the key to healthier use
Jan-Emmanuel de Neve, an economics professor at the University of Oxford and one of the report's editors, says the issue is not necessarily the existence of platforms but how they are used.
He explained that "the very clear message is that we should incorporate the socialization component into social networks."
According to him, algorithm-generated content, passively consumed and dominated by influencers, has a more negative impact on users than real interactions between people.
"Dramatic" decline in life satisfaction in English-speaking countries
Gallup data indicates a worrying trend in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In these countries, life satisfaction among young people under 25 has dropped "dramatically" in the last decade, by almost one point on a scale from 0 to 10.
At the same time, in the rest of the world, the average level of satisfaction has increased during the same period.
Lack of social support, a key factor
Julie Ray, chief editor at Gallup, points out that the differences cannot be explained solely by the use of social networks.
She stated that "social support is one of the most powerful predictors of well-being," and in some countries, young people feel increasingly less supported.
This broader social context could contribute to the decrease in life satisfaction reported by young people.
Amid these concerns, more and more countries are considering restricting children's access to social networks. In December, Australia became the first country in the world to ban the use of these platforms for children under 16.
Finland, back on top. Romania makes slight progress
The World Happiness Report is published annually on International Day of Happiness, celebrated on March 20.
In 2026, Finland remains at the top for the ninth consecutive year in the global happiness ranking. Romania ranks 34th out of 147 countries analyzed, up from the 35th position in the previous year.