UK, USA may pass laws which ban children under 16 from using social media

Florida, USA, is currently working on a law that would stop children under 16 from using social media platforms. The idea behind this law is to protect young people from potential dangers like cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content. Supporters argue that social media can have negative effects on children’s mental health, leading to stress and anxiety.

Similarly in UK, Conservative Member of Parliament Miriam Cates has urged Chancellor Rishi Sunak to explore the possibility of prohibiting individuals under the age of 16 from accessing social media and smartphones.

Addressing the issue during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Ms. Cates argued that there has been an increase in challenges related to “poor teen mental health” and “children struggling with addiction to pornography” since the year 2010. A video posted by a UK news agency showed the MP on the floor speaking in the parliament.

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Parents and educators have been expressing concerns about the impact of social media on kids. They worry about things like the pressure to look a certain way, online bullying, and the addictive nature of these platforms. The proposed law doesn’t completely ban social media for kids but sets an age limit to ensure they are ready to handle the challenges responsibly.

Those in favor of the law believe it gives parents more control and helps kids avoid potential risks. Critics, however, think it might limit personal freedom and might not solve the root issues. They suggest that teaching kids about responsible online behavior and fostering open communication between parents and children is a better approach.

If the law passes, Florida and UK would join other places worldwide, like China and Indonesia, in restricting social media for young users. The debate highlights broader questions about how much governments should regulate online spaces, the responsibilities of social media companies in protecting young users, and the need for comprehensive solutions to address the challenges of the digital age.

The outcome could influence other states dealing with similar concerns about the impact of social media on kids.

Also read: Children’s intelligence could be boosted by video games as per a study