The Schenk Law Firm is at the forefront of addressing social media addiction through litigation. Attorney Frederick Schenk has been appointed to the plaintiffs’ steering committee in the Judicial Council Coordination Proceedings (JCCP) against tech giants like Facebook, Instagram, and Alphabet. These cases focus on holding social media corporations accountable for knowingly promoting addictive behavior among young users, leading to severe mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, and more.

Schenk’s role involves working with leading law firms to prosecute civil cases and California state legislators for legislative reform. Schenk’s work on the legislative front includes advocating for the passage of Senate Bill 976, known as the Protecting Our Kids from Social Media Addiction Act, signed into law by California Governor Gavin Newsom on September 20, 2024, a “first-in-the-nation” law that limits social media corporations from presenting “addictive feeds” to minors.

The legal effort is supported by findings from former social media employees, which reveal that platforms intentionally design algorithms to increase user engagement, resulting in addiction and related mental health problems. Schenk’s leadership is instrumental in this battle, as he seeks justice for those affected and aims to hold tech companies accountable for their actions. His involvement is critical, especially with the U.S. Surgeon General’s recent warnings about the negative impact of social media on teen mental health.

With decades of experience in mass tort litigation and personal injury, Frederick Schenk is invaluable in this high-profile case, where the goal is to protect future generations and ensure social media companies take responsibility for their impact on youth.

What is Youth Social Media Addiction Among America’s Youth?

Social media platforms release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that fuels addiction. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable, as they seek validation through likes, comments, and messages. However, prolonged social media use can lead to severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.

The Dark Side of Social Media Addiction: Symptoms & Side Effects

Social media addiction has profound effects on mental health, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. The platforms are designed to keep users continuously engaged, often leading to neglect of real-world responsibilities and relationships. As users seek validation through likes and shares, they can be exposed to online bullying, develop body dysmorphia, eating disorders, and heightened stress. In more severe cases, prolonged social media use may lead to self-harm, suicidal ideation, and even suicide, particularly in vulnerable populations like teenagers.

Physical health can also suffer, as constant screen use disrupts sleep patterns, causes eye strain, and promotes sedentary behavior. The fear of missing out (FOMO) can exacerbate anxiety, and excessive comparison to others’ lives can fuel depression. Over time, these effects diminish self-esteem and lead to a harmful cycle of seeking online validation.

Parents and caregivers should be vigilant for signs such as emotional withdrawal, sleep issues, decreased interest in offline activities, and worsening school performance. Recognizing the warning signs early and seeking support can help mitigate the harmful effects of social media addiction.

Signs of Social Media Addiction Among America’s Youth:

• Excessive Time on Social Media: Spending an overwhelming amount of time online.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring important tasks or real-world interactions.
• Anxiety When Inaccessible: Feeling anxious or stressed when unable to access social media.
• Declining Performance: Falling grades or poor work performance due to distraction.
• Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Staying up late or waking during the night to check social media.
• Conflict with Others: Social media usage leading to interpersonal conflicts.
• Deterioration of Mental Health: Increased anxiety, depression, and mood swings related to social media use.

Social Media Addiction Lawsuits

In recent years, a wave of lawsuits has emerged against social media companies. In California, the Federal District Court for the Northern District (MDL) and the Superior Court for the County of Los Angeles (JCCP) have selected bellwether cases for discovery. This discovery phase, which gathers evidence, testimony, and information, is preparing for trials set to begin in 2025. These cases include both personal injury and school district claims, with several school boards seeking damages for the expenses incurred due to students’ social media addictions.

The outcomes of these cases may set significant legal precedents, potentially changing how social media companies regulate addictive features.

Class Action vs. Mass Tort in Social Media Addiction Cases

In a class action, one or more plaintiffs represent a larger group of victims, and the judge to whom the case is assigned must first determine if the matter qualifies and can become certified as a class action. Ultimately, any awards are shared amongst the plaintiffs who opt to remain in the class action.

In a mass tort, individual plaintiffs file separate lawsuits but share resources for the litigation process. In social media addiction mass torts, individual compensation may include, amongst other losses, physical and emotional injuries, lost income, as well as medical and other documented expenses.

(FAQs)