The recent discussions in India about the feasibility of banning social media for children have sparked significant debate. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister’s call for stricter laws to curb vulgarity on social media platforms highlights the urgent need to address the negative impacts of unregulated content. However, experts argue that an outright ban on social media for children is neither practical nor effective. Instead, promoting healthy use and regulating content is a more balanced and realistic approach.
The idea of banning social media for children gained traction following Australia’s recent legislation to prohibit social media use for those under 16. While the intention behind such a ban is commendable, experts point out several challenges in its implementation. Dr. Rajesh Sagar, a professor of psychiatry at AIIMS-Delhi, emphasizes that while banning social media for children is a well-intentioned step, it is difficult to enforce. The American Psychological Association (APA) also warns that excessive or problematic social media use can impair adolescents’ ability to engage in daily roles and routines and pose serious psychological risks over time.
One of the primary concerns with an outright ban is the potential for unintended consequences. Dr. Pramit Rastogi, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, notes that such a
The recent discussions in India about the feasibility of banning social media for children have sparked significant debate. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister’s call for stricter laws to curb vulgarity on social media platforms highlights the urgent need to address the negative impacts of unregulated content. However, experts argue that an outright ban on social media for children is neither practical nor effective. Instead, promoting healthy use and regulating content is a more balanced and realistic approach.
The idea of banning social media for children gained traction following Australia’s recent legislation to prohibit social media use for those under 16. While the intention behind such a ban is commendable, experts point out several challenges in its implementation. Dr. Rajesh Sagar, a professor of psychiatry at AIIMS-Delhi, emphasizes that while banning social media for children is a well-intentioned step, it is difficult to enforce. The American Psychological Association (APA) also warns that excessive or problematic social media use can impair adolescents’ ability to engage in daily roles and routines and pose serious psychological risks over time.
One of the primary concerns with an outright ban is the potential for unintended consequences. Dr. Pramit Rastogi, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, notes that such a ban could lead to the development of unregulated and illegal social media channels. This could exacerbate the very issues the ban aims to address, as children might turn to these unmonitored platforms, increasing their exposure to harmful content. Instead of a blanket ban, experts advocate for promoting healthy use of social media and implementing robust parental controls and content moderation mechanisms.
Union Minister’s call for stricter laws to curb vulgarity on social media platforms is a step in the right direction. The minister highlights the need for societal consensus and stronger legal frameworks to address the challenge of vulgar content on social media. This approach aligns with the need to regulate content rather than impose an outright ban. By strengthening existing laws and ensuring their effective enforcement, we can create a safer online environment for children.
Promoting healthy use of social media involves educating both children and parents about the potential risks and benefits of social media. Schools and community organizations can play a crucial role in this regard by incorporating digital literacy programs into their curricula. These programs should focus on teaching children how to use social media responsibly, recognize harmful content, and seek help when needed. Parents, too, must be proactive in monitoring their children’s online activities and setting appropriate boundaries.
Moreover, technology can be leveraged to enhance content regulation. Social media platforms should be required to implement advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence to detect and remove inappropriate content swiftly. Internet service providers can offer parental control features at the provider level, making it easier for parents to manage their children’s online activities. Additionally, creating safe spaces within social media platforms specifically designed for children can provide a controlled environment where they can interact and learn without being exposed to harmful content.
