A Canadian resident has initiated a class action lawsuit against leading social media platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook, alleging that their design fosters addiction and adversely affects users' well-being. The legal action, reported by Dexerto, highlighted concerns over the impact of social media on mental health and productivity.
The individual, a 24-year-old from Montreal, claimed that his engagement with these platforms, which began in 2015, has led to a marked decline in his productivity and negatively influenced his body image. He attributed these issues to the addictive nature of the apps, which he argued have been intentionally designed to increase dopamine levels and keep users engaged.
According to Lambert Avocats, the law firm representing the plaintiff, social media platforms are engineered to maximise user engagement, leading to dependency. Philippe Brault, a spokesperson for Lambert Avocats, stated, “In 2024, it’s estimated that humanity will collectively spend 500 million years on social media. This highlights a widespread issue affecting a large number of individuals.” Brault further emphasised the urgent need for social media companies to prioritise user safety and well-being.
The lawsuit seeks compensation and punitive damages for the alleged negligence of these companies in designing their platforms. Lambert Avocats argues that the current design of social media applications exploits users' psychological vulnerabilities, creating a persistent engagement that impacts their daily lives.
This case is part of a broader legal trend in Canada addressing the impact of social media. Notably, four school boards in Ontario have also filed lawsuits against TikTok, Meta, and Snapchat, alleging that these platforms disrupt the educational environment.
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