The Australian government’s proposal to ban children under 16 from social media may seem like a solution for parents concerned about the mental health impact of digital spaces.
However, evidence suggests such a ban might not only fail to improve youth mental health but could also make children more vulnerable online.
Social media is a primary way children interact with their peers, offering a rare space for unscheduled, free interaction that is essential to their wellbeing. Removing access to these platforms may deprive children of crucial social engagement, rather than providing protection.
While safety measures are important, simply focusing on "safety by design" is insufficient. A collaborative effort between governments, industry leaders, and researchers is needed to create digital environments that are not just safe but optimized for children's growth and development.
Evidence-driven standards should be established, ensuring that major platforms offer age-appropriate content and experiences. Targeted digital education is equally vital, helping children navigate the low-level risks they encounter online, such as conflicts with friends, exposure to inappropriate content, or feelings of exclusion.
Existing research provides valuable insights into how to balance the benefits and potential harms of online engagement for children. Where gaps exist, child-focused research must be prioritized to guide long-term policies.
Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the importance of aligning research with decision-making processes, ensuring governments have access to timely, high-quality data to inform policy decisions.
Rather than imposing restrictive measures, a more effective approach would be to work collaboratively with children to create enriching digital environments. By moving beyond a solely protectionist mindset and incorporating children's perspectives, we can build a digital world that supports their wellbeing and development.