Meta CEO Zuckerberg to Testify in Youth Addiction Trial

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Meta Platforms (META, Financials) CEO Mark Zuckerberg is stepping into a very different spotlight this week a Los Angeles courtroom.

Zuckerberg will address Instagram’s mental health effects on teens for the first time before a jury. He has testified before Congress before, but this is different. This lawsuit might result in financial damages and change how courts handle social media allegations.

California lady who claims she grew addicted to Instagram and YouTube as a toddler is suing. She claims the platforms prioritised engagement and revenues over user well-being, worsening her sadness and suicidal thoughts.

Google and Meta firmly refute the assertions. The businesses argue they have implemented safety features and parental controls and that research shows there is no indication that social media promotes mental health concerns among young users.

Still, stakes are high. Meta might be sued, and hundreds of families, school districts, and governments could sue if Meta loses.

Beyond Trial mirrors worldwide discussion. Australia has restricted social media access for children, and politicians worldwide are mulling harsher limits.

Zuckerberg sees testimony as more than legal. It might affect how investors, regulators, and the public see Meta’s role in youth, technology, and mental health discussions.