#Onlinebehaviour

A wave of new research warns that children who report “addictive” behaviour patterns with their online activities—including social media, mobile phones, and video games—face significantly greater risks for mental health problems than peers who engage less compulsively. A landmark 2025 study, previously highlighted in the Financial Times, demonstrates that the danger is not simply about the total hours spent online, but rather how compulsive or addictive a young person’s engagement has become, dramatically altering the conversation around digital wellbeing and youth mental health.

New international findings reveal that children who exhibit compulsive online behaviours—such as relentless scrolling on social media, constant phone use, and heavy video gaming—face markedly greater mental health risks than peers with less intense engagement. A landmark 2025 study, highlighted by major outlets, shows the danger lies not in total hours online but in the pattern of use: highly addictive, hard-to-stop behaviours dramatically shift youths’ wellbeing and resilience.

This is a critical issue for Thai parents, teachers, and policymakers. Thailand’s rapid digital shift means many students are online from an early age. National data indicate Thai youths use smartphones longer each day than global peers, a trend accelerated by online schooling and social networks during the pandemic. With rising reports of anxiety, depression, and troubling cases of self-harm among young people, international findings offer an urgent call to action for local communities.