Instagram and YouTube Addiction Debated by Jurors
In a landmark case, jurors in California are set to determine whether Instagram and YouTube designed their platforms to foster addiction among children, impacting their mental health. This significant legal battle commenced on February 9, 2026, in a Los Angeles civil court.
Legal Background and Key Players
This trial could establish important legal precedents in the United States, as it addresses the growing concerns about social media addiction. Both Instagram, owned by Meta, and YouTube, a subsidiary of Google, face accusations of intentionally maximizing advertising revenues by making their platforms addictive.
- Defendants: Meta (Instagram), YouTube (Google)
- Trial Duration: Expected to last over one month
- Lead Plaintiff: Kelly G.M., a 20-year-old Californian
- Jury Selection: Completed after a week of meticulous scrutiny
The Case of Kelly G.M.
Kelly G.M. alleges she became highly addicted to social media. She began using YouTube at six years old and created her Instagram account at eleven, later adding Snapchat and TikTok. Her addiction reportedly led to severe depression, anxiety, and body image issues.
Implications of the Trial
The case is unprecedented, marking the first time social media platforms will face jury scrutiny for harming children. Attorney Matthew Bergman, who founded the Social Media Victims Law Center, stated that his team manages over 1,000 similar cases.
However, the trial will not focus on toxic or harmful media content, as U.S. laws provide platforms immunity for user-generated content under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. Instead, the plaintiffs argue that the platforms’ algorithms and features promote compulsive scrolling and are inherently negligent and harmful.
Arguments and Counterarguments
Legal representatives for Meta and YouTube have sought to prevent any comparisons between their platforms and addictive substances, like tobacco and opioids. Despite their efforts, the court allowed such analogies to be part of the discussions.
Jury Selection and Public Sentiment
The jury selection process concluded on February 3, 2026. It faced delays due to incidents unrelated to the trial, and significant public sentiment against Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, influenced the selection process. Attorneys for Meta struggled to dismiss jurors who might harbor negative feelings toward Zuckerberg.
Another trial in New Mexico is set against Meta, alleging negligence in protecting minors from sexual predators. Parallel to the Los Angeles case, a nationwide class action related to social media addiction is ongoing before a federal judge in Oakland, California.
This trial will likely shed light on the responsibilities of social media companies regarding mental health and child safety, potentially reshaping the landscape of digital accountability in America.
