The world’s first major study exploring the impact of reduced social media use among adolescents.
The trial will allow us to test if reductions in social media reduce levels of anxiety, and affect other outcomes such as sleep, bullying, and time spent with friends and family.
In our conversations with teenagers about this research, many told us that social media often distracts them from their “real life” relationships and hobbies. We hope this trial will support teenagers in focusing more on their offline, in‑person activities — which is why we’ve named the study The IRL (In Real Life) Trial.
The trial is funded by The Wellcome Trust, with elements of the research supported by the National Institute for Health Research and our “AIM Bradford” research programme. It will be delivered by a partnership of Bradford Institute for Health Research, the University of Cambridge, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Given growing interest in the study, the trial team is hosting webinars that will provide an efficient and accessible way to introduce the trial, explain the planned design and rationale, and respond to common questions.
Find out details and register below.
We’ll be sharing written updates on the trial each month to keep everyone informed.
"*" indicates required fields
Stay informed and inspired — sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates, research insights, and ways to get involved directly in your inbox!
"*" indicates required fields
