Congress and state legislators are considering laws to restrict teen social media use, and school districts are suing social media companies for harming kids’ mental health. Are parents and policy makers right to be so concerned? Jacqueline Nesi, PhD, of Brown University, talks about the research on social media and teens’ mental health, whether it’s possible to be addicted to social media, what teens themselves think about social media, and what parents can do to help their kids use social media in a healthy way. For transcripts, links and more information, please visit the Speaking of Psychology Homepage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this discussion, Dr. Jacqueline Nesi, an expert in technology's effects on youth and a professor at Brown University, dives deep into Australia's ban on social media for minors under 16. She explores whether such bans truly protect children or simply shift the problem. The conversation touches on the importance of tailored solutions over blanket legislation, the need for enhanced privacy settings, and the critical role of media literacy. Nesi also emphasizes parents' vital role in fostering open conversations about online safety with their kids.

Expert in parenting, Jacqueline Nesi, discusses the screen time debate, including childhood development, parental habits, discipline, and managing teenagers in a digital world. Insights into setting rules, co-viewing as bonding, and preparing kids for technology challenges.