Should Australia Ban Social Media for Kids? [Poll]

The discussion surrounding children’s use of social media is one of the most pressing issues in the technology sphere today. There is considerable research indicating that platforms like Instagram can negatively impact children’s mental health, though some argue that these platforms also facilitate social connections.

Currently, Australia is in the midst of deliberating a proposed legislation aimed at prohibiting social media access for children under the age of 16…

It is well-documented that the mental health of teenagers has substantially worsened over the past decade, and there appears to be a correlation with the rise in social media usage.

The CDC’s bi-annual Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed that the majority of adolescent girls (57%) report experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness (an increase from 36% in 2011), with 30% stating that they have seriously contemplated suicide (rising from 19% in 2011). While boys also face challenges, their levels of depression and anxiety remain lower, with smaller increases since 2011.

A host of studies have endeavored to establish whether there is a causal relationship between increased social media usage and mental health issues, with one researcher concluding that the evidence now points distinctly to a yes.

Numerous new studies have emerged since 2019, leading to surprising agreements among key figures in the debate […] A significant amount of data now supports the notion that social media is a major contributor, not merely a minor correlate, of depression and anxiety, alongside associated behaviors including self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

Last year, the American Psychological Association (APA) recommended that parents keep a close watch on their children’s social media usage until the age of 14.

Massey lawsuits have been initiated against social media firms for allegedly attempting to get teenagers hooked on their platforms.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, is among those who have raised concerns regarding the potential adverse effects of technology on mental health.

Australia Considering a Ban for Under 16s

Associated Press reports that Australia is contemplating a ban.

On Thursday, Australia’s communications minister introduced a landmark law in Parliament aimed at prohibiting social media access for individuals under 16, citing online safety as a significant challenge for parents.

Michelle Rowland noted that platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram could face penalties of up to 50 million Australian dollars ($33 million) for failing to prevent minors from obtaining accounts […]

“Social media can be detrimental for too many young Australians,” Rowland stated. “Nearly two-thirds of Australians aged 14 to 17 have come across extremely harmful online content, including discussions of drug use, suicide, self-harm, and violence. One-fourth have encountered content endorsing unhealthy eating practices.”

However, messaging and gaming platforms would not be included in the ban.

What Do You Think?

Is it wise to ban social media usage for children under 16? Should there be alternative measures, such as requiring parental approval?

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

Image Credit: Paul Hanaoka/Unsplash