In a groundbreaking move, the Australian government has recently enacted legislation that bans social media platforms from allowing children under the age of 16 to access their services. This landmark decision aims to address the growing concerns surrounding the mental health implications of social media use among adolescents.
The influence of social media on the well-being of young individuals has been a topic of increasing concern, with numerous studies highlighting the potential negative effects. Research has shown that excessive social media use can contribute to the development of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress among adolescents and young adults.
The availability of various online communities and services may initially appear beneficial, as they can provide a sense of social support and knowledge acquisition. However, the evidence also suggests that certain aspects of social media engagement, such as experiences of online harassment, can have detrimental consequences on mental health.
The Australian government’s decision to impose fines of up to $33 million on social media platforms that fail to comply with the new regulations underscores the seriousness with which they are addressing this issue.
The science behind this decision is ALARMING:
- — Nearly half (46%) of teens report being online “almost constantly”.
- — Additionally, the risk of mental health issues has more than doubled among teens who spend 3 or more hours daily on social media.
- — Furthermore, over half (59%) of teens experience cyberbullying.
This move aligns with the growing global consensus that the mental health of young individuals should be a top priority, and that measures to mitigate the potential harms of social media use are necessary.
While the long-term impact of this legislation remains to be seen, it is a significant step forward in the ongoing effort to protect the well-being of children and adolescents in the digital age.
What are the steps that countries like Sri Lanka can take, in order to avoid similar problems associated with social media among young people, and promote their mental health and overall well-being?