Instagram CEO dismisses idea of social media addiction in landmark trial

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Sanya MansoorFebruary 11, 2026 at 11:51 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri testified in a California trial where Meta is being sued by families and school districts alleging Instagram's addictive design harms young people's mental health. Mosseri dismissed the idea of social media addiction, differentiating it from "problematic use," while acknowledging concerns about compulsive use. The trial focuses on a plaintiff, KGM, who claims Instagram's features worsened her depression and suicidal thoughts. Mosseri was questioned about prioritizing profits over safety and the impact of cosmetic filters. Plaintiff's attorneys presented internal communications suggesting awareness of Instagram's addictive nature and concerns about its impact, leading some families to believe the company prioritized growth over user safety. This trial is a bellwether case to gauge jury reaction for future lawsuits against Meta, Snap, TikTok, and YouTube.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Los Angeles 40% Social Media Victims Law Center 40% Matthew P Bergman 50% California 50% YouTube 60% Snap 60% TikTok 60% Mark Lanier 60% Meta ×270% Adam Mosseri ×690% Instagram ×795%

Keywords

social media addiction 100% instagram 90% adam mosseri 90% mental health 80% trial 80% addictive design 70% meta 60% young people 60% harmful consequences 50% problematic use 50%