“Scrolling”: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study Exploring How Social Media Shapes the Health and Lived Experiences of Children and Young People in Scotland

Abstract

Background: Communication is a fundamental part of life in society and is foundational in health and well-being of populations. In recent history, communication takes place within digital environments and social media now plays a central role in how Children and Young People (CYP) interact, learn, and express themselves. While social media provides opportunities for connection and creativity, it also presents risks, including misinformation, cyberbullying and pressures associated with constant connectivity. This duality has prompted global debate and extensive research. Existing research tends to focus on older adolescents, leaving a gap in understanding the lived experiences of younger CYP and how they themselves perceive the impact of social media on their health. Aim: This study explores the lived experiences of CYP aged 10-13 years living in Scotland, focusing on how they use social media and how they perceive this influences their health and well-being. Methods: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach was used to conduct in-depth, semi-structured interviews with nine CYP recruited from one local authority area in Scotland. A seven-step IPA analysis was undertaken to develop Personal Experiential Themes (PETs) and Group Experiential Themes (GETs) supported by an audit trail and reflexive practice. Findings: Five GETs were identified: 1. being healthy is multidimensional; 2. social media is integral to how CYP communicate; 3. social media use has a negative impact on the health of CYP; 4. using social media has a positive impact on the health of CYP; and 5. safeguards for CYP using social media Across these themes, six key phenomena emerged: CYP perceive health as holistic and socially constructed; CYP perceive social media use as a core social function; the push-pull dynamic of social media use; emotional regulation through digital engagement; experience as a protective factor; and disconnect between ‘real life’ online. Impact: This study contributes new knowledge by amplifying CYP’s voices and offering insight into how they interpret and navigate their digital worlds. The findings challenge dominant deficit-based narratives and highlight both risks and opportunities associated with social media use. Through their shared experiences, the findings not only challenge prevailing assumptions but advance current understandings through the interpretative and idiographic lens of CYP. In a context where the rights of CYP and their participation in research is increasingly recognised, this study reinforces the need to include CYP in policy and practice decisions. This research contributes to that debate and identifies that with appropriate support and safeguards, social media can be used not only safely but in ways that enhance CYP’s well-being.