During a trial concerning child safety in New Mexico, testimony from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg was presented today, focusing on the company's research regarding social media's impact on users. The deposition, recorded in March, highlighted Zuckerberg's responses to questions about documents revealing findings from Meta's studies on user behavior and addiction.
Zuckerberg addressed a document indicating that Facebook users may associate posting with receiving feedback, potentially leading to increased engagement on the platform. He expressed uncertainty about the practical implications of this finding but acknowledged the summary presented. Additionally, he was questioned about a chart showing that approximately 20 percent of 11-year-olds were monthly active users of Instagram, a claim he confirmed but stated he was unaware of the methodology used to derive those figures.
In 2023, New Mexico's attorney general initiated legal action against Meta, accusing the company of failing to protect children and enabling predator access to minors. Throughout the proceedings, Meta's representatives have contested the notion that social media usage constitutes an addiction, asserting that the company prioritizes teen safety over growth.