If Your Kid Is Addicted to Social Media, Whose Fault Is It? | RealClearPolitics
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by Ingrid Jacques, USA TodayFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A landmark legal case has reignited debates about responsibility in the age of social media addiction. Kaley, a 20-year-old plaintiff, sued major tech companies Meta, Google, TikTok, and Snapchat, alleging their platforms contributed to her social media addiction. The case raises critical questions about who bears responsibility—parents or corporations—in safeguarding children from harmful digital habits.
The lawsuit highlights the growing concern over how social media platforms exploit psychological vulnerabilities in users, particularly young people. Features like infinite scrolling, targeted algorithms, and reward systems are designed to keep users engaged for extended periods. These tactics have been criticized for contributing to excessive screen time and emotional distress among teenagers and young adults.
While the legal battle continues, the broader implications touch on issues of corporate accountability and parental responsibility. Advocates argue that tech companies should implement stronger safeguards to protect minors, while others emphasize the need for parents to set boundaries and monitor their children’s online activity. The case has sparked political debates about regulating social media platforms and balancing innovation with public welfare.
Ultimately, this story underscores the urgent need for a societal conversation about the role of technology in our lives. As social media continues to shape daily interactions, questions about responsibility—whether legal, ethical, or personal—will only grow more pressing.
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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/23/2026