Sonia Livingstone

Terry Flew, a digital communication expert from the University of Sydney, discusses Australia's forthcoming social media ban for users under 16, driven by youth mental health concerns. Sonia Livingstone, a media scholar from LSE, contrasts past and present social media experiences for youth, noting both benefits and dangers. Lisa Given, an information sciences professor, highlights global reactions and the potential shift to unregulated platforms. They explore age verification challenges and ponder if this trend might spread worldwide.

Join Joe Ryrie, co-founder of Smartphone Free Childhood, alongside neuropsychologist Richard Saitoik, who explores how screen time affects young brains. Wouter van den Bos shares stunning research on the emotional toll of social media likes on teenagers, while Sonia Livingstone discusses the impact of smartphone bans in schools. Together, they unravel the complex relationship between smartphone usage and children's mental health, calling for a balanced approach to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.

Sonia Livingstone, a Professor at the London School of Economics, and Alicia Blum-Ross, Public policy lead for kids and families at Google, share insights on children's screen time. They challenge the effectiveness of strict screen limits, especially during the pandemic. The conversation emphasizes a balanced approach, advocating for collaboration between parents and children. They discuss the impact of technology on social development and the importance of open communication. Additionally, they explore ways for families to enrich their technology use while aligning with personal values.