The study found that paranoid thoughts are common among adolescents and exist on a continuum ranging from mild social concerns to more severe fears of threat and conspiracy. Paranoia was closely associated with negative affect, peer difficulties, bullying experiences, and emotional responses to social media. Network analyses suggested that anxiety and depression may contribute to the development of paranoia, while paranoia may in turn negatively affect peer relationships. Overall, the findings highlight adolescent paranoia as a meaningful psychological phenomenon that is closely intertwined with emotional wellbeing and social experiences.