Faculty Expertise: Assistant Professor Andrew Yee on youth social media use

_{Photo credit: Lianhe Zaobao} 

As Singapore looks to strengthen safeguards around young people’s use of social media, WKWSCI Assistant Professor Andrew Yee shared his insights with Lianhe Zaobao on what healthier social media use could look like and why screen time alone does not tell the full story. 

Andrew is a member of the Ministry of Health’s Expert Panel on the Mental Health Impact of Social Media Use, which examined the impact of social media on young people’s mental health and recommended measures to support healthier and safer use. 

The panel found that one in three young people aged 15 to 17 in Singapore spends more than three hours a day on social media, while one in six aged 10 to 24 shows signs of problematic social media use. 

Drawing on his research on social media, digital technology and youth well-being, Andrew explained that the number of hours spent on social media should not be the only consideration. What young people do online, the content and interactions they encounter, and whether their social media use becomes compulsive or begins to interfere with sleep, emotional well-being, relationships or school can provide a fuller picture of its impact. 

The discussion comes as Singapore considers stronger safeguards for younger social media users. While age-based restrictions have been introduced or proposed in several countries, Andrew pointed out the practical challenge of young people finding ways around them. A recent YouthTechSG study cited by Zaobao found that 72% of youths surveyed said they had circumvented age restrictions or would consider doing so. 

The MOH Expert Panel recommended addressing potentially harmful platform features rather than relying solely on restricting access. It also called for stronger age assurance measures and greater support for young people and parents in navigating online spaces safely. 

Andrew also emphasised the need for a wider approach, with technology companies, schools and the Government all having a part to play alongside young people and their parents in creating safer online environments and supporting healthier digital habits. 

Read Andrew’s comments in Lianhe Zaobao and watch the interview.