Addressing Social Media's Impact on Youth

Sep 29, 2024

Lecture: The Impact of Social Media on Children and Adolescents

Introduction

  • Teenagers have limited freedoms due to their developing brains, yet have unrestricted access to social media.
  • Increasing concerns from parents and experts about the negative impacts of social media on young people.

Current Concerns with Social Media

  • Negative Experiences: 70% of teens report negative experiences online.
    • 1 in 3 exposed to disturbing or traumatic content.
    • 1 in 4 have been cyberbullied or sexually harassed.
  • Mental Health Impact: Contributing to a youth mental health crisis (e.g., eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide).
  • Brain Development Concerns: "Still face syndrome" and reduced face-to-face interactions impacting development.

Government Response

  • Age Verification Trial: $6.5 million allocated in the Australian budget for an age verification trial.
  • South Australia Proposal: Ban children under 14 from certain platforms.
    • Proposal to raise the minimum age for social media from 13 to 16.

Advocacy for Raising Age Limits

  • 36 Months Campaign: Led by radio host Whipper, advocating raising social media joining age to 16.
  • Developmental Justification: Between ages 13-16, the adolescent brain, particularly the frontal cortex, undergoes significant development crucial for decision-making and emotional regulation.
  • Comparison to Other Age Restrictions: Similar regulations exist for driving, alcohol, and vaping.

Implementation Challenges and Strategies

  • Challenges: Kids are adept at circumventing restrictions.
  • Proposed Solutions: Two-factor verification system to enforce age restrictions.
  • Government Collaboration: Involvement of political figures like Dom Perrottet for support.

Conclusion

  • Social Media Features: Platforms with addictive aspects (e.g., endless scrolling, likes, shares) contribute to issues by keeping users engaged for extended periods.
  • Call to Action: Advocating for political leaders like Mr. Albanese or Mr. Dutton to make changes a part of their election promises.

Closing Remarks

  • Public Appeal: Emphasis on the need for collective action to protect children's well-being.