The UK government is reviewing social media’s impact on children, amid growing concerns about their wellbeing.
- A possible social media ban for under-16s is under consideration if platforms ignore their responsibilities.
- Pressure mounts on governments worldwide to restrict children’s social media access due to mental health issues.
- The Online Safety Act empowers Ofcom to enforce tighter regulations on social media and protect young users.
- Research aims to influence the regulation of digital spaces, focusing on children’s online safety.
The UK government has initiated an investigation into the effects of social media on children’s wellbeing, signalling potential regulatory shifts. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted that a ban for users under 16 remains a possibility if social media platforms fail to uphold their duty of care. This move aligns with international trends, as demonstrated by Australia’s decision to bar under-16s from social media access.
Global concern grows over young people’s use of social media, amid links to mental health issues like depression and eating disorders. The urgency for governments to step in appears justified as alarm over children’s exposure to detrimental content gains traction. Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had also previously contemplated a smartphone ban for under-16s, indicating shifting attitudes towards digital engagement.
The government’s new inquiry follows the 2019 review by the UK’s Chief Medical Officers, which found associations between children’s mental health challenges and excessive device use, albeit without proving causation. Additionally, Professor Jonathan Haidt’s research suggests significant mental health shifts among youth during the smartphone boom from 2010 to 2015. This research supports current efforts to reassess social media’s role in young lives.
The Online Safety Act, enacted last year, bolsters Ofcom’s authority to hold social media companies accountable, particularly for content potentially harmful to children. Since its passage, Ofcom has sought public input to shape enforcement strategies. New directives for Ofcom include embedding safety in platform design, fostering transparency, keeping regulations adaptable to emerging risks, and ensuring inclusivity in digital environments.
Concerns over social media regulation intensified after revelations in the Wall Street Journal about Meta’s awareness of Instagram’s impact on teenage girls. In response, Meta improved parental controls and partnered with Yoti to enhance age verification. Similarly, TikTok faced fines from Ofcom for inaccurate parental controls data, suggesting a tougher stance on platforms failing compliance.
The ongoing investigation and potential policy changes highlight a growing emphasis on protecting children online.
