Under-16 social-media ban — a great idea from Down Under

Australia is set to implement a complete ban on social media for children under 16, prompting US lawmakers to consider similar measures.

Studies have consistently shown the detrimental effects of social media on children’s mental health, making it challenging for parents to monitor its usage, given its integral role in social interactions.

The Australian approach focuses on holding social media platforms accountable for implementing effective screening measures, rather than penalizing children or parents.

Popular social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, X, and Facebook would have a year to develop strategies to address this issue.

While no solution is foolproof, adopting the Australian model internationally would discourage companies from creating products that are excessively addictive to children.

Shifting the focus from profit-maximization to risk management for algorithms could significantly mitigate the harmful impact of social media on children.

Although Big Tech may attempt to resist the Australian proposal, there is growing public support for such measures, as evidenced by recent actions such as the US law targeting TikTok and Governor Hochul’s efforts to pass social media protection laws in New York.

Regulating social media use among minors is within the legal framework of the US Constitution, as courts have historically allowed the regulation of commercial speech.

This initiative does not grant government officials the authority to censor content; it is a content-neutral restriction aimed at safeguarding children.

American lawmakers should initiate discussions on similar regulations to encourage platforms like Instagram to prioritize the detoxification of their products.