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Several nations, including France and the UK, are contemplating following Australia’s example by banning minors and certain teenagers from social media platforms, though experts remain divided over whether such measures are truly effective. Advocates argue that urgent action is needed to address the worsening mental health issues among young people, while critics contend that the scientific evidence is inconclusive and call for a more nuanced approach.
Last month, Australia became the first country to prohibit individuals under 16 from accessing highly popular and lucrative platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. France is currently debating similar legislation for those under 15, with President Emmanuel Macron backing a proposed bill.
Last week, The Guardian reported that Jonathan Haidt, an American psychologist and supporter of Australia’s social media ban, had been invited to brief UK government officials. In his best-selling book “The Anxious Generation” (2024), Haidt claims that excessive screen time—especially social media—are rewiring young minds and contributing to a surge in mental health crises. While such views have gained traction among politicians, they remain controversial within academic circles. Canadian psychologist Candice Odgers criticized Haidt’s narrative, stating it lacks scientific backing.
A central point of contention revolves around measuring social media’s true impact on youth mental health. Michael Noetel from the University of Queensland explained to AFP that even small effects can aggregate across billions of users. He emphasizes that ample evidence suggests social media can harm teens, though some critics demand overly stringent proof. “Haidt’s position is more accurate than critics admit, but less absolute than his book implies,” Noetel stated. He considers a ban a worthwhile “gamble,” given the potential benefits.
France’s public health agency, Anses, recently concluded that social media adversely affects adolescents—particularly girls—though it isn’t the sole factor behind their declining mental health.
Moderation
In a 2022 review published in Psychological Bulletin, Noetel analyzed over 100 studies globally on the relationship between screen time and emotional issues among youth. The review found a harmful cycle: excessive screen use, notably social media and gaming, was linked to emotional distress, which in turn encouraged even more screen time. Nonetheless, some researchers caution against blanket bans.
Ben Singh of the University of Adelaide tracked over 100,000 Australian youths for three years, publishing findings in Jama Pediatrics. His research indicated that the worst well-being was seen in teens who used social media more than two hours daily or not at all. Those with moderate use demonstrated the best mental health. Singh emphasized, “Both extreme restriction and excessive use can be problematic,” with girls particularly vulnerable. For older boys, complete deprivation might be more detrimental.
The Toxicity of Screens
French psychiatrist Serge Tisseron has long warned that screens pose a severe health threat. “Social media is astonishingly toxic,” he told AFP. However, he cautions that a ban could be circumvented by tech-savvy teens and might also absolve parents of their responsibilities. Tisseron advocates for balanced regulation rather than an outright prohibition.
Some experts suggest waiting to evaluate Australia’s initiative. Cambridge University researcher Amy Orben noted that within a year, much will be known about the impact of Australia’s ban and any unintended consequences. Last week, Australia’s online safety authority reported blocking 4.7 million accounts belonging to minors, indicating significant enforcement efforts.
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