Meta Internal Study Shows Teen Social Media Controls Fail

Internal research from Meta Platforms Inc., dubbed Project MYST, revealed that parental supervision tools and household restrictions fail to meaningfully reduce compulsive social media use among teenagers. The study, conducted in partnership with the University of Chicago and involving 1,000 teens and parents, found that teenagers frequently circumvent controls and that algorithmic designs override surface-level restrictions.

These findings surfaced during a social media addiction trial in Los Angeles County Superior Court. A plaintiff identified as Kaley alleges that the company's products contribute to severe mental health crises, including depression and self-harm. Meta's legal defense argues the study measured perceived excessive use rather than clinical addiction, whereas critics and the nonprofit Fairplay argue the results prove the company prioritizes engagement over youth safety.

During the proceedings, Instagram head Adam Mosseri testified that he was unfamiliar with the specifics of Project MYST, although documents suggest he approved the study. Mosseri confirmed that the findings were neither published nor used to warn parents. The revelation contradicts public statements made by Meta leadership in congressional testimony, which emphasized parental involvement as a primary safety solution.