ABC News Daily Why banning social media isn’t the answer
Nov 11, 2024
Susan McLean, a leading cyber safety expert in Australia, discusses the government's proposal to ban under 16s from social media. She highlights the potential risks of such a ban, arguing it could cut off vital support for young people. Instead of restrictions, she advocates for education and digital literacy to navigate online challenges. The conversation also touches on the complexities of cyberbullying, misinformation, and the importance of parental involvement in creating a safer social media environment.
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Early Facebook Use
- Kriti Gupta lied about her age to join Facebook at 11 or 12 to stay connected with friends after moving from Australia to the US.
- She believes most kids did the same due to the lack of age verification methods other than self-reported birth years.
Social Media's Positive Impact on Youth
- Kriti found social media crucial for maintaining friendships and developing social skills.
- It allowed her to connect with like-minded individuals in her age group, fostering a sense of belonging.
Banning Social Media Ineffective
- Kriti argues a blanket ban on social media for under-16s is drastic and ineffective without proper digital literacy education.
- She emphasizes the need to equip youth with the skills to navigate the digital world safely from a young age.