A significant majority of UK parents, nine out of ten, are in favour of implementing a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16. However, the sentiment among the young people who would be directly impacted by such a measure appears far more nuanced, according to recent discussions with a group of pre-teens and teenagers in West London.
These 12- to 16-year-olds demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing debate surrounding children's online safety. Their opinions spanned a spectrum, advocating for measures ranging from mandatory time limits and enhanced content controls to a complete prohibition for under-16s. These diverse perspectives come as the government's consultation on children's online safety is set to deliver its findings next week. It is anticipated that the outcome will include an under-16 age limit for certain 'high-risk' platforms, alongside restrictions on features like livestreaming for others.
Precisa, a 13-year-old active on TikTok and Instagram, highlighted the potential impact of a blanket ban on her burgeoning roll-on deodorant business, which she markets through these platforms. As Deputy Youth Mayor for Hammersmith and Fulham, she also noted the crucial role social media plays in publicising the youth council's activities. Precisa argued against a universal ban, instead advocating for more rigorous monitoring of harmful content and the introduction of screen time limitations. The government's consultation is indeed exploring options beyond a complete ban, including curbing features such as autoplaying videos and infinite scrolling, as well as introducing other restrictions like screen time limits and age restrictions on personalised algorithms.
Other young people expressed differing views. Zoe, 14, who primarily uses Snapchat and whose parents restrict her access to other platforms, stated that parental controls were sufficient and did not support a ban. However, she emphasised the importance of feeling safe when she eventually gains more access to social media. Conversely, 12-year-old Kit supported a full ban, citing the addictive nature of social media and its potential to harm friendships and mental health. His 14-year-old brother, Xander, disagreed, believing in the educational positives of social media but agreeing that stricter controls are needed.
Many of the 12-year-olds interviewed cited YouTube as a primary online activity, often through parent-supervised accounts that offer age-appropriate content, despite the platform's general age limit of 13. Sophia, 12, expressed concern about missing out on music and art content if YouTube were to be blocked for under-16s, as it is in Australia. Milei, also 12, hoped the government would avoid overly drastic measures. Accurisa, 12, who enjoys watching football influencers, supported banning 'unsafe' material but indicated she would 'definitely' sign up for social media at 16 to connect with older friends.