How Social Media “Likes” Shape Teen Brains and Decision-Making

2. The Study at a Glance

Researchers wanted to know how social media “likes” affect teenage brains. They recruited 32 teenagers for the study. Each participant viewed 148 photographs on a social media-like platform. Out of these, 40 photos were ones the teens had personally submitted.

The twist? The number of likes on each image wasn’t real. Instead, the researchers assigned the likes. Some photos had many likes, others had very few. While the teens looked at the images, researchers scanned their brains using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This allowed them to see exactly which brain areas lit up in response to likes.

This experiment recreated the feeling of scrolling through an actual feed. It helped scientists study the connection between peer approval and brain activity in real time.

3. Key Findings

3.1 Peer Influence in Action

The results confirmed what many parents already suspect—teens follow the crowd. The participants were more likely to “like” a photo if it already had a large number of likes. This happened regardless of whether the photo was harmless or showed risky behavior.

Risky photos included images of drinking, smoking, or wearing provocative clothing. Even in these cases, a high like count made teens more likely to approve the image. Peer influence was strong enough to override concerns about safety or judgment.

3.2 Brain Activity and Rewards

MRI scans revealed an even deeper layer of the story. When teens viewed photos with many likes—especially their own photos—the reward centers of their brains lit up. These included areas linked to:

• Reward processing (the brain’s way of reinforcing pleasurable experiences).
  
  
• Social cognition (understanding and responding to social situations).
  
  
• Imitation (copying behaviors seen in others).
  
  
• Attention (focusing on things considered important).
  
  

In other words, a high like count made the brain feel rewarded, socially validated, and alert. This created a powerful cycle: teens saw likes, felt rewarded, and wanted to repeat the behavior that got them those likes.

3.3 Reduced Inhibition and Control

The study also revealed a troubling pattern. When teens looked at risky photos, the parts of the brain responsible for inhibition and cognitive control became less active.

• Inhibition response helps people resist impulses.
  
  
• Cognitive control helps with decision-making and avoiding harmful actions.
  
  

When these areas go quiet, judgment weakens. This means that not only are teens more likely to approve risky behavior, but they may also be more likely to imitate it in real life.

4. The Risks of Social Media Peer Pressure

Peer influence has always existed. Teens have long been swayed by their friends’ opinions on clothing, music, or behavior. But social media changes the game.

In the past, peer pressure happened face-to-face, in a limited circle. Today, it happens 24/7, and it comes from hundreds—or even thousands—of people online. Likes act as a form of social currency, instantly signaling what’s “cool” or “acceptable.”

The danger lies in the glamorization of risky behavior. When teens repeatedly see unhealthy habits—like substance abuse—framed as fun or desirable, they may normalize these behaviors. Over time, this can chip away at their ability to make safe, independent choices.

5. The “High” from Social Media

The study suggests that social media likes create a real, measurable “high” in the brain. This high comes from dopamine, a chemical linked to pleasure and reward.

Here’s how it works:

1. A teen posts a photo.
   
   
2. Likes start coming in.
   
   
3. The brain releases dopamine.
   
   
4. The teen feels good and validated.
   
   
5. The brain remembers the feeling and craves more.
   
   

This cycle explains why some teens struggle to put down their phones. Posting, checking likes, and scrolling become habits fueled by the brain’s reward system. Over time, this can lead to compulsive use—much like other addictive behaviors.

6. How Parents Can Help

Social media isn’t all bad. It can foster creativity, connection, and self-expression. The key is balance and awareness. Parents can play a big role in guiding their teens toward healthy online habits.

6.1 Monitor Online Associations

Know who your teen follows and engages with online. Encourage them to follow positive role models, educational accounts, and supportive communities.

6.2 Talk About Risky Behaviors

Discuss the difference between online portrayals and real-life consequences. Explain how glamorized risky behavior can influence decision-making.

6.3 Encourage Offline Activities

Help your teen build a fulfilling life outside of social media. Sports, hobbies, volunteering, and in-person friendships can provide a stronger sense of identity.

6.4 Teach Critical Thinking

Encourage your teen to question why certain posts get attention. Is it because they promote something positive—or because they shock or provoke?

6.5 Lead by Example

Model healthy social media use yourself. Show that it’s possible to enjoy online connections without being consumed by them.

7. Conclusion

This study shows that likes on social media are more than just numbers. They influence how teens feel, think, and make decisions—right down to brain activity. The pull of peer approval is powerful, and when paired with risky behaviors, it can weaken judgment and encourage imitation.

For parents, awareness is the first step. By monitoring online influences, promoting offline confidence, and encouraging critical thinking, you can help your teen navigate the digital world safely.

Technology can be a tool for growth, but it needs guidance. Using solutions like CleanRouter can help filter harmful content and encourage healthier online habits—while still allowing teens to enjoy the benefits of being connected.