Debate: Should social media be banned for under-16s? Two experts weigh the evidence
By
Jessica Abrahams
Summary
This article presents a debate between two leading voices on whether social media should be banned for under-16s. Daisy Greenwell of Smartphone Free Childhood argues for the ban, citing concerns over children's mental health, addiction, and exposure to harmful content. Margarita Panayiotou of Manchester University argues against a blanket ban, suggesting it could be counterproductive and that education and digital literacy are better approaches. The article explores the growing global trend of social media restrictions for minors, including Australia's recent ban, and examines the evidence and arguments on both sides of the debate.
Source
bskyDebate: Should social media be banned for under-16s? Two experts weigh the evidencenewhumanist.org.ukKey quotes
· 5 pulledSocial media is designed to be addictive, and children's developing brains are particularly vulnerable to its effects.
A blanket ban risks cutting young people off from important social connections and support networks that they access online.
We need to teach children how to navigate the digital world safely, not just lock them out of it.
The evidence on mental health harms is concerning, but it's not yet conclusive enough to justify such a drastic measure.
Parents are struggling and they want help - a ban gives them a clear line to hold.
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