In this presentation, Patti Valkenburg reflects on 30 years of media research, tracing how media evolved from mass-produced television to social media's personalized algorithms. Focusing on youth mental health, she pioneered a shift from average-based media effects research toward an approach based on individual susceptibility. Her work shows that a specific group of teens – roughly 10 to 20 percent – is highly susceptible to social media's negative effects. No two children are alike. By moving beyond average effects, science can now pinpoint who is vulnerable to media effects and why. She concludes by explaining why understanding individual susceptibility is critical for effective digital policy.

Prof. Dr Patti Valkenburg, Professor Emerita at the University of Amsterdam (2013–2025), conducts research into the effects of media on children and young people. She has received numerous awards for her pioneering research, including the Spinoza Prize, the highest academic honour in the Netherlands. Her book *Plugged In* is available via Open Access and has been translated into four languages.

After the talk, participants are invited to an Apéro.

If you would like to participate in this event, please register by 5.00pm on 13 November 2026. The number of places is limited. Register here

This event will be held in English