Feb 11 • 08:34 UTC 🇳🇬 Nigeria Punch

Instagram boss to testify at social media addiction trial

Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, is set to testify in a California trial concerning the addictive nature of social media for young users.

Adam Mosseri, chief of Instagram, will testify in a notable trial in Los Angeles regarding claims that social media platforms are intentionally designed to be addictive to minors. This trial is pivotal as it involves Instagram's parent company, Meta, and YouTube, both facing accusations that their platforms have harmful impacts on the mental health of young users. The case centers around a 20-year-old woman named Kaley G.M., who alleges her severe mental health issues stemmed from an addiction to these social media platforms during her childhood.

During the trial, attorneys are arguing the implications of social media addiction, with Mosseri's testimony expected to shed light on Instagram's design choices and whether they contribute to addictive behavior among children. The defense, particularly from YouTube's lawyers, claims that their platform should not be categorized as social media, thus challenging the premise that it is inherently addictive. The outcome of this trial could not only affect the companies involved but also set a significant legal precedent regarding accountability for social media's impact on youth.

Given the growing concern over social media's effects on mental health, this case highlights the urgent need for increased scrutiny and regulation in the tech industry. If the court finds social media companies liable, it may lead to greater legislative efforts aimed at protecting young users and potentially reshape how these platforms operate in the future, stirring a debate on ethical responsibilities of social media giants in ensuring user safety.

📡 Similar Coverage