Meta ignored its own 2018 warning about addictive platform designs
Internal documents show Meta has long studied whether its platforms could encourage addictive behaviour. Researchers inside the company proposed a meta stock audit in 2018 to examine design features linked to compulsive use. Yet the audit never took place, despite ongoing debates about social media's impact on mental health.
In 2018, Meta's own researchers suggested a review of Facebook's design elements that might fuel problematic use. The plan included collaboration with external experts, such as Tristan Harris, to add credibility. However, the company did not move forward with the audit.
Studies conducted by Meta found that around 3% of US Facebook users showed signs of 'problematic use'. Teens and young adults were identified as the most vulnerable group. Despite these findings, the company has repeatedly stated that problematic use does not equate to clinical addiction.
Over the years, Meta has introduced some measures aimed at user safety. In 2021, it added 'take a break' reminders for teens on Instagram. A year later, parental control tools were rolled out. Then, in 2024, it bundled existing teen protections into 'Teen Accounts', setting stricter default privacy and safety options.
Publicly, Meta has maintained that no conclusive evidence ties social media to addiction or broader mental health issues. Executives have testified that while platform use can become problematic, it should not be classified as addiction.
The company's internal research highlights ongoing concerns about compulsive use, particularly among younger users. While Meta has implemented some safeguards, the proposed 2018 audit was never conducted. No further specific measures beyond teen safety features have been documented since then.
