A new study has found that teenagers who spend too much time alone or avoid social interactions may experience changes in their brain that affect decision-making, emotions, and social behavior.
Published in the journal Cerebral Cortex, the research suggests that social withdrawal during teenage years can lead to measurable differences in brain structure and function, especially in areas that control how we think, feel, and connect with others.
Scientists discovered that teens who preferred solitude had a weaker cerebellum, the part of the brain that helps coordinate movement and balance. They also showed changes in regions linked to emotional control and social understanding, including the amygdala and the anterior cingulate cortex.
The study highlights that adolescence is a crucial period for brain development, and lack of social connection during this time can have long-lasting effects. Teens who isolate themselves were also more likely to show symptoms of anxiety, depression, and difficulty managing emotions.
Experts say the findings don’t mean being alone is always bad — occasional solitude can be healthy — but consistent social withdrawal could be a warning sign. They recommend that parents and teachers pay attention to teenagers who avoid friends or group activities for long periods.
The researchers plan to continue tracking participants to better understand how early social habits influence mental health and brain function over time.
