Majority of Americans Back Social Media Ban for Kids

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | 11:46am CT

Edison Research at SSRS

Edison Research has released its 2026 Infinite Dial report, offering a new snapshot of digital media behavior in the U.S. and highlighting growing concern over social media use among younger audiences.

The long-running annual study, conducted in partnership with SiriusXM Media, finds that social media usage now reaches 85% of Americans age 12 and older. At the same time, attitudes toward its impact -- particularly on youth -- are shifting.

According to the report, 57% of U.S. adults support banning social media for individuals under the age of 16. The data also reveals a partisan divide on the issue, with 64% of Republicans favoring a ban compared to 54% of Democrats.

Beyond social media, the 2026 Infinite Dial provides updated benchmarks on a range of digital audio behaviors, including streaming, podcasting, and radio listening. The study also introduces new data on artificial intelligence usage, reflecting its growing role in consumers' daily media habits.

Edison Research has tracked digital media trends through the Infinite Dial since 1998, making it one of the industry's longest-running surveys of consumer behavior. The full report, along with a webinar presentation, is available on the company's website.