Young people get health advice from social media. But can they tell good information from bad?

Most young people turn to social media with their questions, but end up getting an onslaught of bite-sized, dubiously reliable content. Students and experts alike say more extensive learning is needed to boost critical thinking skills and help them be savvier on social media.

Young people get health advice from social media. But can they tell good information from bad?
A close-up image of a teen boy holding a smartphone, his thumbs hovering over the apps -- including TikTok and Instagram -- on his home screen.

Most young people turn to social media with their questions, but end up getting an onslaught of bite-sized, dubiously reliable content. Students and experts alike say more extensive learning is needed to boost critical thinking skills and help them be savvier on social media.