How Instagram Says It’s Not Addictive, But the Debate Still Rages

In a Los Angeles courtroom that felt more like a debate stage than a legal proceeding, Instagram’s boss Adam Mosseri challenged the idea that social media can cause real addiction. He argued that what people call “addiction” is really just a lot of time spent on the app, which he calls “problematic use. ” Mosseri emphasized that the company thinks it is better to protect users than to chase profit, even if that means making some tough choices. The case centers on a 20‑year‑old, known only as “KGM, ” whose lawsuit could set a precedent for thousands of other claims against big social‑media firms. KGM and two others were picked to be bellwether trials, meaning the judge will use their stories to see how the arguments hold up before a jury. If this case goes in one direction, it could change how companies treat kids on their platforms. Mosseri’s testimony was not about medical science. He admitted he isn’t a doctor, but he said people close to him have faced serious addiction problems. That personal touch made his words more relatable, but the opposing lawyer still pulled out a podcast clip where Mosseri had once used the word “addiction. ” The lawyer’s point was that Instagram might be encouraging unhealthy habits, especially among teens who are more likely to stay online longer.A key point of contention was Instagram’s use of cosmetic filters that can push users toward plastic surgery. Mosseri said the company wants to keep things safe while limiting censorship, but parents in the courtroom cried over how filters can make people feel bad about their bodies. The judge reminded everyone that it was not proper to show support or opposition during the testimony. When questioned about profits, Mosseri noted that teens don’t generate as much ad revenue because they click less and often lack money to spend. Yet the lawyer countered that teens who start using social media early tend to stay, making them a valuable long‑term audience. Mosseri replied that safety and revenue can go hand in hand: protecting users often leads to a more loyal, paying base. Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg is set to testify next week. Meanwhile, Instagram has rolled out new safety tools, but studies still show that teen accounts can be exposed to sexual and self‑harm content. Meta calls these reports misleading, while critics argue that the platform still needs to do more.