The dilemma of social media and children

“The U.K. announces social media ban for children under 16” was a major headline across media outlets just a few days ago. Describing the move as a “big moment,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the measure is intended to give young people back their childhood and protect them from the harmful effects of social media.

With this announcement, the U.K. joined Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, which have already enacted nationwide restrictions on minors’ access to social media.

Mixed reactions

Reactions from teenagers, parents, and educators to the proposed ban have been mixed. Some regard it as unnecessary and difficult to enforce, while others hail it as a positive step toward safeguarding children’s well-being. Elon Musk was particularly critical, describing the move as part of “a government surveillance state.”

But is social media harmful to children? Aren’t there any significant benefits? Why have the countries mentioned above banned social media for minors? Perhaps the most important question for us: Should India introduce similar restrictions?

Research has shown that excessive use of social media can be harmful to children. It is associated with addictive behaviour and a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. One of the most common effects is digital stress caused by the “Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO). Due to peer pressure, young teenagers often feel compelled to keep up with discussions about their favourite celebrities and are anxious not to miss any updates or notifications.

Chasing engagement on social media platforms has become an addiction for many young people. Receiving likes, comments, and shares on their posts gives them a sense of achievement. However, when their posts fail to attract attention, many feel disappointed and discouraged. This can lead to unhealthy comparisons with peers and unwanted social behaviour. As dependence on social media grows, children may begin to shape their activities and even their identities around what is most likely to generate online engagement. This pursuit of likes and approval is neither healthy nor beneficial.

The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health reports that adolescents who use social media for more than three hours daily are twice as likely to show symptoms of depression and anxiety as those who spend less time on these platforms.

Positive impact

Yet social media is not always as harmful as some critics claim. When used responsibly and with appropriate guidance, it can offer several significant benefits to children and teenagers under the age of 16. According to Jacqueline Nesi, an assistant professor of psychology at Brown University who studies technology use in youth, “Teens (and adults) obviously get something out of social media. We have to take a balanced view if we want to reach teens and help them use these platforms in healthier ways.”

Digital platforms can help young people explore their interests, connect with others who share those interests, and develop their communication and creative skills. In addition, social media can enhance digital literacy, help young users learn how to communicate effectively in online environments, engage with diverse perspectives, evaluate information critically, and navigate the digital world responsibly. Used wisely, social media can be a valuable tool for learning, self-expression, and meaningful connection.

The crucial question, however, is whether all minors can distinguish between information, misinformation, and disinformation, and whether they can apply critical thinking to evaluate the content presented to them. Unfortunately, many have not yet developed these skills. As a result, they are often influenced by posts shared by influencers and the online propaganda machinery without questioning their accuracy or intent.

Social media literacy

In today’s interconnected digital ecosystem, social media platforms act as a double-edged sword. While some advocate for India to ban these platforms for children under 16, a more sustainable solution is integrating social media literacy into the school curriculum. Countries like Finland, Canada, Singapore, South Korea, the Netherlands, and Australia have already paved the way. By collaborating with media educators, schools should teach students digital etiquette and critical analysis. Ultimately, students must be equipped to identify online threats, spot fake news and combat disinformation.

The education system in the country should recognise that today’s students are digital natives. Schools, in turn, should equip them with digital literacy skills, enabling them to use technology responsibly and develop into informed citizens.

The writer is an ELT resource person and education columnist. Email [email protected]