A recent study commissioned by the Vodafone Foundation and conducted by Infratest has revealed a complex relationship between German youth and social media usage. The research, surveying 1,046 young people and young adults between April 28th and May 18th, 2025, indicates a widespread acknowledgement of overuse and associated concerns.
The findings show that nearly three-quarters of young people in Germany spend more time on social media daily than they ideally would. A significant 69% report utilizing these platforms for over two hours each day, with more than a quarter (27%) investing at least five hours daily on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Notably, 61% of respondents express the perception that they dedicate too much time to these platforms, often at the expense of other commitments.
While many young people demonstrate awareness of their usage patterns and engage in reflection (47%), they are actively attempting to mitigate their reliance. Common strategies include disabling notifications (69%), utilizing “Do Not Disturb” modes (51%) and consciously limiting social media access during study periods (60%).
The study also highlights the potential for negative emotional impact. Nearly three in ten youth (29%) associate social media use with considerable stress and 26% sometimes experience feelings of guilt. Young women appear disproportionately affected, with 52% reporting experiences of exclusion and negative evaluation stemming from social media interactions, compared to 31% of male respondents. These experiences are frequently linked to social comparison.
Furthermore, a clear demand for education and guidance has emerged. Over 80% of students and trainees desire more comprehensive media literacy instruction within their schools, requesting structured lessons, dedicated projects, practical tips for balanced social media consumption, or even regular “social media advice” sessions.
The research indicates a lack of structured support both at home and within the school environment. A majority (53%) of respondents report the absence of established rules regarding social media use within their households, while 51% state that their schools do not provide instruction on responsible social media engagement. This underscores a desire for more proactive strategies to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape.
