Summary
A study found that false information on social media is leading young people to self-diagnose conditions like ADHD and autism. Researchers analyzed thousands of social media posts and called for better content quality and moderation.
Key Facts
- The study showed misinformation on social media led to more young people self-diagnosing neurological conditions.
- Researchers from the University of East Anglia and Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust conducted the study.
- They found 52% of ADHD videos and 41% of autism videos on TikTok were inaccurate, according to Dr. Alice Carter from UEA.
- Researchers examined 27 studies analyzing over 5,000 social media posts.
- Misinformation was higher on TikTok than on other platforms.
- YouTube Kids had the least misinformation due to stricter content moderation policies.
- The study highlighted that misinformation could cause delayed diagnosis for those needing help.
- TikTok disputed the study, stating it removes harmful misinformation and provides reliable information sources.
