With the Australian Government’s recent announcement of a plan to enforce minimum ages for children to access social media, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to consider the implications of this decision.
Dr. Mary Anne Hall from EPEC Education offers valuable insights on managing children’s social media use, highlighting both the positives and the risks of social media use for young people.
The Benefits of Social Media for Children
Social media can be a powerful tool for young people. For many, these platforms serve as essential spaces for support and connection. They offer opportunities for learning, self-expression, and social interaction, and help to foster a sense of community.
Sharing interests, connecting with peers, and building positive relationships can be extremely beneficial, especially for children and young people who may struggle with their wellbeing. Social media can be a positive tool for children with reduced opportunities for social inclusion, such as children who live with disability, and those who live in remote and isolated communities.
The Dangers of Social Media Use
While there are benefits, the risks associated with time spent online, including the use of social media, are significant and should not be overlooked. Some risks include:
- Reduced sleep – children may spend excessive time on screens, especially late at night, which can disrupt sleep
- Brain Drain – spending time online can deplete the cognitive resources required for emotional regulation, including attention spans and inhibition control
- Bullying – online harassment can be pervasive and psychologically damaging
- Mental health – time spent online has been shown in some research to be a risk factor for mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety
- Exploitation – Children may be vulnerable to predatory behaviour from adults or other children online
- Dopamine Addiction – The instant gratification of likes and shares can lead to addictive behaviour – young people are highly susceptible to the addictive design of social media platforms.
- Decline in physical health – children who spend excessive time in front of screens generally do less physical activity; may be more influenced by junk food advertising; and may experience neck, back and eye issues.
- Limited communication skills – excessive time online can result in the reduction of communication and conflict management skills, and speech and language skills.
Finding a Balance
Equipping children with the necessary skills for safe and positive online behaviour is vital. This involves not only understanding the potential pitfalls of the digital world but also developing healthy online habits.
Businesses, government, schools and families must all work together to ensure that young people are able to benefit from being online, while also reducing the risk of harm. As a society, we cannot rely on children to navigate this online world without guidance and support.
While legislating a minimum age for social media use could no doubt provide some benefits (assuming that it is enforceable), it is parents and caregivers who must decide how best to support their children in navigating this complex world.
For many parents, the potential drawbacks of social media may outweigh the benefits. Caregivers may find that children are better served by engaging in physical play, developing healthy peer relationships, and learning important conflict resolution skills in the real world.
We cannot expect young people to possess the maturity needed to make these decisions alone. They need our help, as parents, carers and educators, to create a safe and supportive online experience – one that prioritises their wellbeing above all else.
