What in the World How a social media ban would have changed my teens
Dec 8, 2025
Australia's planned ban on social media for those under 16 sparks a lively discussion. Guests share their experiences with social media's pressures and its role in shaping identity. They reflect on the harmful effects like cyberbullying, as well as the benefits of community and representation. Opinions vary on the ban's merits, with thoughts on whether it might have changed their teenage years significantly. Practical advice is offered for under-16s facing the changes, focusing on real-life connections and maintaining curiosity.
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A National Experiment On Teen Social Media
- The Australian ban forces a public experiment on whether teens need social media to develop.
- Felix says a year or two offline can reveal whether platforms truly benefit young people.
Reconnecting And Recalling The Past
- Felix mainly used Instagram to message friends, create group chats and reconnect with people from his past.
- He values social media's ability to recall memories and rekindle old friendships.
Sports Profile And Identity Through Social Media
- Habibat used social media mainly to manage her sporting profile and find creators who shared her cultural identity.
- She curated feeds and took breaks to keep the positive learning and belonging aspects of platforms.