Max Stossel Speaks on the Psychology of Social Media

Head of Upper School Abby Abbott brought Max Stossel to campus to educate parents on social media and the Upper School’s phone-free environment. Stossel, Founder of Social Awakening, presented “We’ve Been Sneaking Into Your Brains” to students in grades 7-12.

Drawing on his experience as a former social media strategist, Stossel shared how social media platforms are intentionally designed to capture young people’s attention and influence their behavior. He discussed how features like infinite scrolling, algorithm-driven feeds, and notifications can contribute to distraction, compulsive use, and even anxiety. Stossel also provided students with practical strategies, tools and reminders, such as turning off non-essential notifications, taking intentional social media breaks, reflecting on the impact of apps on self-image and mood, and studying with their phone in a different room, to help them regain control over their digital lives.

Stossel also presented “Social Media & Your Kids” to parents. He provided a behind-the-scenes look at social media, explaining how platforms are deliberately designed to capture attention and keep users engaged. From infinite scrolling to algorithm-driven feeds, he shared how these features can affect teens’ focus, self-esteem and mental health. Stossel offered practical strategies for parents to support healthy digital habits at home, including modeling mindful technology use, creating phone-free zones, having open conversations about social media’s emotional impact, and delaying smartphone access for younger students.