I'm about to change my mind on social media bans for young people

A few days ago, Australia has banned young people from social media. Teens aged 16 and under are no longer allowed to use YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and other social media platforms.

I wrote a longer post (in German) some weeks ago about my opinion beforehand. Social media bans are discussed in Europe as well. I was—in short—in favor of limiting access for kids and teenagers. I'm a parent. One can see an advantage in educating my kids when stating that it is legally not allowed to use Instagram etc.

As of today, I'm not so sure anymore. It may be easy for me. But is it fair for young people? Isn't it better to teach them how to handle social media? There is even a UN comment that children have the right to participate in digital media.

However, there should be restrictions. Children under the age of 13 (give or take) shouldn't use social media. Period. There are enough studies showing what it does with young brains: nothing good. But for older kids, there has to be a way to take part in the (digital) society, to create a network of people, to actually learn to use social media—instead of being thrown to that world on the 16th birthday.

Anyway, teenagers find ways. In Australia, they shift to networks and apps not yet regulated under the law. And they use VPNs, what is so obvious.

My thoughts about this topic are not complete. I'll keep you posted.