Growing up in a Digital World: The implications on men’s mental health from both a lived experience and research perspective.
Clearly, although social media and other online sites can be harmful to the mental health of men (as they can reinforce the harmful masculine norms in our society), they also provide opportunities for social support which would not otherwise be available to them. This is something that needs to change. It is hoped that the continued growth of these supportive online communities will eventually erode the stigmas which present a life-threatening risk to men. The question that remains is how can we maximise the positive influences of these supportive online communities while minimising those that are toxic and harmful?
Reflections on Young People’s Advisory Groups (YPAGs);payment, emotional labour, legitimacy and some take homes
I’ve decided to do a blog about my highlights from being on Young People Advisory Groups (YPAGs) over the past few years, as I step into the 26 – 30 age bracket. There is always some anxiety around turning 25+ when you have been involved in YPAGs because there is little or no clarity on what happens after 25 (in the patient and public involvement world) - are there more / fewer opportunities for meaningful involvement after 25?
Purrble: The Research So Far
Within this sector of mental health research, I have been collaborating as a part of the Digital Youth research programme and Sprouting Minds group, with researchers Jess, Petr and Ellen, who work with a co-designed fluffy robot called Purrble. This robot is currently being used as an emotion regulation intervention for young people who may be struggling with self-harm.
Meet our researchers – Dr Sieun Lee
Sieun Lee is a Research Fellow working on Digital Youth research project 4, which is focused on developing resilience to self-harm and suicidality in the digital world, and the role of brain, psychology and the social world in this.
How digital technologies may impact eating disorders and mental health.
Lucy-Paige’s blog raises many issues that will resonate with young people about the impact that social media can have on people with, or at risk of, eating disorders.
Demystifying Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) and Personal and Public Involvement (PPI)
You're running a research project around social media and online harms. We want to recruit young people to take part in some online interviews but the research team needs some advice from you, reader. By Ewan Soubutts, Digital Youth Researcher
The impact of digital experiences on adolescents with mental health vulnerabilities
Professor Sonia Livingstone and Mariya Stoilova explain the findings of their new report on the impact of digital experiences on adolescents with mental health vulnerabilities, and the implications for regulation of online platforms.
Meet our researchers – Dr Jake Bourgaize
Jake Bourgaize is a Research Associate working on Digital Youth research project 3, which is focused on digital engagement and mental health risks in vulnerable children.
