Early social media use linked to lower test scores

A new study has found that pupils who create their first social‑media accounts at the start of secondary school—typically aged 11 to 12—tend to achieve lower scores in mathematics and reading assessments at age 16 than peers who delay joining such platforms. The research compared test results of students who opened accounts early with those who waited several years, revealing a performance gap equivalent to roughly six months of additional learning.

The analysis, which tracked academic outcomes across a representative sample of secondary‑school students, showed that the early‑adopter group lagged behind in both core subjects. Researchers attribute the disparity to the frequent checking of updates and notifications, which they say can divert attention away from study time and classroom engagement. The study controlled for socioeconomic background and prior attainment, suggesting that the timing of social‑media exposure itself may be a significant factor in the observed differences.

The findings highlight potential educational implications of early social‑media use, prompting calls for parents, educators, and policymakers to consider guidance on the appropriate age for digital platform participation. Further investigation is recommended to explore long‑term effects and to develop strategies that mitigate distraction while preserving the benefits of online connectivity.