A Los Angeles jury found Meta and YouTube responsible for the mental health decline of a 20-year-old woman who alleged addiction to their platforms as a child.
Landmark Ruling in Social Media Addiction Case
A jury in Los Angeles has ruled that Meta and YouTube bear responsibility for the worsening mental health of a 20-year-old woman who claimed she became addicted to their platforms as a child. The companies have been ordered to pay $3 million in damages.
The decision marks the first verdict of its kind, concluding a groundbreaking, nearly two-month civil trial that could pave the way for other social media-addicted users to seek compensation. The jury awarded $3 million in damages, with Meta responsible for 70% and YouTube for 30%. The court may still impose additional financial penalties.
Plaintiff’s Claims of Childhood Addiction
The case was brought by a 20-year-old woman, identified only as Kaley, who blamed social media platforms for causing mental health issues—including anxiety, body image disturbances, and suicidal thoughts—due to addiction to their products during her childhood. She began using YouTube at age six and Instagram at age nine.
Kaley’s lawyers argued that the addiction was a result of the companies’ deliberate policies.
Companies’ Defense and Response
Lawyers for Meta and Google argued that the plaintiff’s problems stemmed from a difficult family situation, not social media. They also maintained that they had implemented tools and measures to protect children.
Following the verdict, Meta stated it disagrees with the decision and is considering legal options. Google, the owner of YouTube, announced its intention to appeal.
Key Testimony in the Trial
During the trial, key figures testified, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Instagram head Adam Mosseri, and YouTube CEO Neal Mohan.
Potential Precedent for Future Cases
This is the first case of its kind to reach a verdict. While not a class-action lawsuit, the outcome could set a precedent for hundreds of similar cases, potentially leading to substantial payouts and forcing changes in how platforms operate. The case is being compared to landmark lawsuits against the tobacco industry.
Previous Settlements with Other Platforms
Kaley had previously filed similar lawsuits against Snapchat and TikTok, but those companies reached settlements with her before trial.
Related Ruling Against Meta in New Mexico
The verdict was announced a day after a New Mexico state court ruled against Meta, finding it liable for failing to protect children from predators. In that case, Meta must pay $375 million.
Source Information
Oskar Górzyński (PAP) from Washington
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