Chatbots, Social Feeds and Emotional Needs: A Critical Examination of Digital Engagement, Emotional Literacy, and Adolescent Mental Health
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Authors
Gormley, Catherine
Issue Date
2026-05
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
adolescence , adolescent mental health , social media , generative artificial intelligence (AI) , emotional literacy , digital literacy
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Abstract
This capstone examines the relationship between adolescent development, digital media use, and mental health, with a focus on social media and generative artificial intelligence (AI). Adolescence is a period of heightened emotional reactivity and increased sensitivity to social evaluation, while at the same time the capacity to regulate is still developing. Digital environments interact with these developmental processes by amplifying social comparison, peer evaluation and feedback, and intense emotional experiences. The literature suggests that the relationship between digital media and adolescent mental health is complex and bidirectional. Problematic patterns of digital engagement are associated with a myriad of mental health challenges. As well, adolescents use social media and generative AI as tools for coping and meeting their needs for connection. Emotional literacy and digital literacy are identified as transdiagnostic protective factors that support adaptive engagement with digital environments. This capstone contributes to the field by critically examining contemporary and emerging research, and by offering clinically relevant resources that can be used by Child and Youth Mental Health clinicians to support adolescents and families.
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess