Teenagers from underprivileged homes are more likely to report an addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other social media, according to studies.

The peer-reviewed journal Information, Communication, and Society published the study's findings.

The results of the first study of its kind reveal a connection between economic disparity and unsatisfactory usage of social networking sites and instant messaging services.

The situation is exacerbated in schools where there are financial and social divides between students.

According to the authors, the findings, which were based on data from more than 179,000 kids in 40 countries

This indicate the need for new social media usage policies that lessen the effects of poverty.

The authors argue that governments' actions could aid in limiting the dysfunctional or abnormal behaviour of young people.

These undesirable behaviours include being unable to cut back on screen time or lying about social media use to friends and family.

"Policymakers should create initiatives to lessen disparities and restrict adolescents' unhealthy social media usage behaviours."

"Economic inequality persists and continues to be a significant social determinant of adolescent health and well-being......

......even as the digital divide continues to narrow in many countries. Schools are an ideal location to encourage safe and prosocial online behaviours.”