Should Australia Consider Banning Social Media for Kids? [Poll]

The discussion surrounding the effect of social media on children is a highly pertinent issue in today’s tech landscape. There is substantial evidence suggesting that platforms like Instagram may negatively influence the mental health of young users, though some contend that they offer valuable opportunities for social interaction.

Currently, Australian lawmakers are considering legislation aimed at prohibiting social media use for individuals under the age of 16…

It’s well-documented that adolescent mental health has seen a significant downturn over the past decade, with evidence suggesting a correlation with social media activity.

The CDC’s bi-annual Youth Risk Behavior Survey indicated that the majority of teenage girls (57%) report experiencing ongoing sadness or hopelessness (up from 36% in 2011), while 30% of teen girls have seriously contemplated suicide (up from 19% in 2011). Although boys are also struggling, their increase in rates of depression and anxiety is comparatively lower since 2011.

Multiple studies have sought to uncover the potential causal relationship between rising social media use and mental health issues, and one researcher who has examined the data asserts that the answer is a resounding yes.

A significant amount of new research has emerged since 2019, highlighting a recently observed consensus among leading voices in this debate […] The available evidence now strongly indicates that social media serves as a major factor contributing to depression and anxiety, and hence to related behaviors such as self-harm and suicidal tendencies.

Last year, the American Psychological Association (APA) recommended that parents keep a close eye on and regulate social media usage for children up to the age of 14.

Moreover, numerous lawsuits have been filed against social media corporations for allegedly creating addictive designs aimed at teenagers.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, is one prominent figure who has voiced concerns regarding the detrimental impacts of technology on mental well-being.

Australia Considers a Ban for Under 16s

Associated Press reports that the Australian government is contemplating a ban.

On Thursday, Australia’s communications minister presented a groundbreaking law in Parliament aimed at prohibiting social media access for children under 16, emphasizing that ensuring online safety is one of the biggest challenges for parents.

Michelle Rowland noted that platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram could face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars ($33 million) for failing to prevent underage users from creating accounts […]

“For too many young Australians, social media can pose serious risks,” Rowland stated. “Nearly two-thirds of Australians aged 14 to 17 have encountered extremely harmful content online, including topics such as drug use, suicide, and self-harm, as well as violent material. One in four has come across content promoting unhealthy eating habits.”

However, messaging and gaming platforms would not be affected by this proposed ban.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Is implementing a ban on social media for those under 16 an effective measure? Should there be alternative controls, such as requiring parental approval?

We invite you to participate in our poll and share your opinions in the comments section below.

Photo: Paul Hanaoka/Unsplash