Youth and media: Insights from the JIM Study 2025

The JIM study (Youth, Information, Media) provides insights into the media use of young people (aged 12 to 19) in Germany. It is conducted annually by the Media Education Research Association Southwest. Here we summarize the most important results so that parents can better support their children.

Everyday digital life: devices, time and media use

Almost all young people (98%) own a smartphone that they use every day. On average, they spend around four hours a day on the device, with older young people spending over four and a half hours. It is not only the duration that is decisive, but also the type of content that young people consume. This usage time includes both school work and leisure activities. From the age of 16 in particular, many use their smartphone almost continuously. Even if they are aware of how important it is to take breaks, many find it difficult to regulate their use independently.

Social media platforms and messengers remain the most important channels for communicating, finding information and organizing everyday life.

AI in everyday life: opportunities and challenges

For the first time, the 2025 study focuses on the topic of artificial intelligence (AI): 91% of young people use at least one AI tool. AI is used particularly often for school and homework, for example to quickly search for information. However, young people also use AI to answer questions that concern them or to find out how something works.

Even younger teenagers use AI regularly. Parents should therefore discuss the topics of AI use, source criticism and the responsible use of information with their children. Talk to your child about what AI applications are suitable for and that AI chatbots are no substitute for communicating with other people.

Risks and problematic experiences

The study also shows that many young people have negative experiences: Around a quarter are aware of cases of bullying in their environment, while 9 percent have been affected themselves. The communication risks of social media and smartphones remain high. In addition, the constant pressure to be reachable, cyber contacts and problematic content put a strain on many young people.

Practical tips for parents

• Talk openly with your child about smartphone and internet use: How much time is healthy? What does your child do online? What wishes does your child have with regard to screen time and media use? How can you support your child?
• Agree fixed times together with rest and cell phone-free phases to avoid excessive screen time.
• Explain how the AI answers are generated and question the quality of sources together.
• Watch out for signs of bullying, badgering or excessive demands and keep the conversation going.
• Promote media literacy and critical thinking: Not everything online is reliable.

In addition to this overview, we also recommend the miniKIM study on media use by young children and the KIM Study 2022 for younger children.

Further detailed information on the JIM Study 2025 can be found on the website of the Medienpädagogischer Forschungsverbund Südwest and at Handysektor.