Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri testified in a California court Wednesday that he distinguishes between “clinical addiction” and “problematic use” when discussing social media’s impact on users, according to the Associated Press. The testimony came during a lawsuit alleging Instagram intentionally designs its platform to be addictive to young people.
Mosseri drew a parallel to his own viewing habits, stating he has described himself as “addicted” to Netflix, but clarified this differs from clinical addiction. He maintained that Instagram does not intentionally cause addiction, though he acknowledged users may experience positive feelings from spending more time on the platform. He also stated that such outcomes are not the company’s intention or benefit.
The case, initiated by 20-year-old Kiley G.M., alleges that social media addiction led to anxiety, depression and physical disabilities. Kiley G.M. Began using YouTube at age six, Instagram at eleven, and subsequently used Snapchat and TikTok, claiming these platforms are addictive to children.
Mosseri addressed concerns about Instagram’s beauty filters, which critics argue promote cosmetic surgery. He stated there is “always a tension” between safety and freedom of expression, and that the company is striving to create the platform as safe as possible while minimizing censorship.
The lawsuit is considered a “bellwether trial” with potential implications for thousands of similar cases against big tech companies. Mark Lanier, the attorney who secured billions in damages against Johnson & Johnson in baby powder cancer cases, is representing the plaintiff. Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg is scheduled to testify on February 18, and YouTube CEO Neal Mohan will also appear at a later date.
