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Meta Sued Over Social Media Addiction in Young Users

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 3:36 GMT by KOAT Albuquerque
      Locales: New Mexico, UNITED STATES

SANTA FE, N.M. - February 10, 2026 - A pivotal trial is currently underway in Santa Fe, New Mexico, pitting the state's Attorney General against tech giant Meta (formerly Facebook) in a case alleging the company knowingly designed its social media platforms - Facebook and Instagram - to be addictive and detrimental to the mental health of young users. The lawsuit, brought forth by Attorney General Raul Torrez, argues that Meta prioritized profit and growth over the wellbeing of adolescents, leading to a surge in rates of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

The core of the case centers around allegations that Meta's algorithms are intentionally engineered to maximize user engagement, often at the expense of mental health. Torrez, in his opening statement, asserted that Meta was fully aware of the harmful effects its platforms had on young people but deliberately concealed this knowledge, continuing to target and exploit this vulnerable demographic. "They did everything they could to hide what they knew," he stated, emphasizing the alleged intentionality behind the company's actions.

This trial isn't simply about attributing blame; it's about establishing a legal precedent regarding the responsibility of social media companies for the psychological wellbeing of their users. If successful, the New Mexico lawsuit could pave the way for similar legal challenges across the nation, potentially reshaping how these platforms are designed and regulated.

A Deep Dive into the Allegations

The lawsuit dives deep into Meta's internal research, reportedly revealing a detailed understanding of the addictive nature of its platforms and their negative impact on young minds. Plaintiffs are expected to present evidence demonstrating how features like infinite scroll, personalized notifications, and "likes" are specifically designed to trigger dopamine release, creating a feedback loop that encourages compulsive use. This constant stimulation, the suit claims, can lead to attention deficits, sleep disruption, and a distorted sense of self-worth.

Furthermore, the plaintiffs will likely highlight the prevalence of cyberbullying and the pressure to present an idealized image online. Instagram, in particular, has been criticized for fostering a culture of comparison and contributing to body image issues, especially among teenage girls. Experts will testify on the link between prolonged social media use and the development of eating disorders, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.

Meta's Defense and the Broader Implications

Meta vehemently denies the allegations, arguing that it is not responsible for the complex mental health challenges faced by young people. The company's legal team contends that attributing these issues solely to social media ignores a multitude of societal factors, including family dynamics, peer pressure, and broader economic stressors. They are framing the lawsuit as an attempt to unfairly scapegoat Meta for problems that are far more widespread and multifaceted.

However, the defense faces a difficult task. Leaked documents and whistleblower testimony have already cast a shadow on Meta's claims of innocence. The focus on internal research will force the company to justify its decisions and explain how it balanced the pursuit of profit with the potential harm to vulnerable users.

The outcome of this trial will have far-reaching implications beyond the courtroom. A ruling in favor of New Mexico could lead to significant financial penalties for Meta, as well as court-ordered changes to its platform design and algorithms. It could also prompt Congress to enact stricter regulations on social media companies, requiring them to prioritize user safety and mental health.

The Evolving Landscape of Social Media Regulation

This case is occurring within a growing global conversation about the need for greater accountability in the tech industry. Several countries are already exploring ways to regulate social media platforms, including imposing age verification requirements, limiting data collection, and increasing transparency around algorithms. The EU's Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) represent some of the most comprehensive attempts to regulate the digital space, aiming to create a safer and more competitive online environment.

The debate extends beyond regulation. Many experts advocate for media literacy education in schools, teaching young people how to critically evaluate online content and develop healthy digital habits. Others emphasize the importance of parental involvement, encouraging families to have open conversations about social media use and establish clear boundaries.

The Santa Fe trial is expected to last several weeks, with a wealth of expert testimony and evidence to be presented. KOAT Action 7 News will continue to provide ongoing coverage as this landmark case unfolds, keeping viewers informed about the latest developments and the potential impact on the future of social media.