Digital technology is becoming ubiquitous in adolescents, with over 90% of teens reporting multi-daily usage of social media. While digital technology has potential benefits for increasing social connection, especially during these times, there also exists a possibility for it to introduce and reinforce social norms and advertising regarding substance use. This recent study found that digital technology use that facilitates interaction with others was associated with increased risk of self-reported 30-day substance abuse in adolescents. The likelihood of cannabis use was almost three times higher for individuals exposed to pro-cannabis posts on Twitter, while similar trends were seen on other platforms. Previous research has also shown an increase in social media advertising aimed at increasing substance use, which may affect youth substance use.
