October 8-9, 2026
Potsdam, Germany
Deadline: May 31, 2026
Few topics are currently as widely and often emotionally debated as the impact of digital and social media on young people. But what does empirical research actually tell us? The inaugural “Youth in a Digital Society” conference aims to move beyond public debates by bringing together interdisciplinary, evidence-based perspectives.
This new initiative, the University Research Focus “Education for the Future” at the University of Potsdam, is designed as an annual event that connects international researchers across the broad field of digital media research.
The English-language conference focuses on the use of digital media and its effects on children, adolescents, and young adults. It addresses both psychological outcomes (e.g., mental health) and sociopolitical outcomes (e.g., political engagement and radicalization), as well as interventions to prevent problematic use and mitigate adverse effects.
The program features two keynote lectures and four symposia with leading researchers from Germany, Europe, and beyond. In addition, an open call for poster presentations offers opportunities to share ongoing research. Roundtable sessions will provide space for discussion, exchange, and the development of new collaborative ideas.
We warmly invite you to join us and contribute to this interdisciplinary exchange.
