The ongoing lawsuit involving Instagram has brought to light significant discussions about user engagement and platform responsibility. During recent court proceedings, Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, faced extensive questioning regarding the impact of the platform on its users, particularly the youth.
Instagram’s Usage and Concerns of Excessive Time
In a notable exchange, Mosseri commented on the level of Instagram usage, particularly when a user reported spending up to 16 hours in a single day on the app. He acknowledged that such extensive use could be classified as ‘problematic,’ but was hesitant to label it as an addiction.
“It’s important to differentiate between clinical addiction and problematic use,” Mosseri stated, emphasizing that usage experiences vary greatly by individual. He highlighted that some users might engage with Instagram for prolonged periods without negative feelings.
Internal Research Highlights
Legal counsel Mark Lanier presented findings from an internal Meta survey which assessed user experiences. The survey included data from 269,000 Instagram users and revealed troubling statistics:
- 60% of respondents reported experiencing or witnessing bullying within the previous week.
- K.G.M, the plaintiff, had submitted over 300 reports concerning bullying incidents on Instagram.
Mosseri was unaware of these reports, raising further questions about the oversight and monitoring of user safety on the platform.
Candid Conversations on Platform Responsibility
During the trial, discussions also veered towards the responsibility that Instagram holds regarding its features. In a 2019 email exchange among Meta executives, concerns were raised about image altering filters that could negatively impact users’ self-image. Responding to these concerns, Nick Clegg, a former Meta executive, warned that prioritizing growth over user safety could tarnish the company’s reputation.
Mosseri confirmed that the company had decided to prohibit filters that extensively altered physical appearances. However, under scrutiny, he admitted that the implementation of this ban had been adjusted over time.
As the trial progresses, the implications of Mosseri’s testimony and the findings from user surveys will likely continue to be pivotal in addressing how social media platforms manage user experiences and ensure safety, particularly for younger audiences.
