A new EU study reveals that nearly 14% of teenagers in the European Union spend at least eight hours a day on screens. On school days, young people average 4.5 hours online, rising to over six hours on weekends.
While 40% of adolescents surveyed view screen time as positive, only 29% report negative effects. About 48% believe social media positively impacts their mental health.
However, nearly one in three adolescents feel sad, stressed, or socially excluded due to social media. Around 40% struggle with concentration or sleep difficulties.
More than a third of European teens encounter false or misleading information on social media, a quarter face hate speech, and nearly one in five sees unwanted violent content.
Professor Tanya Notley from Western Sydney University warns against assuming a direct link between social media and declining well-being. She urges policymakers to distinguish between screen time and social media use.
Nearly half of surveyed teens call for better enforcement of existing platform rules, while 44% want more digital education. Almost half support additional restrictions and age limits.
Susie Davies, founder of UK charity PAPAYA, advocates for a ban on social media for under-16s, arguing that platforms exploit dopamine pathways, leading to compulsive use.
The UK plans to ban social media for under-16s from spring 2027. Australia enacted a total ban for minors in December 2024. Norway and Canada are also considering bans.
France, Spain, Greece, Austria, and Denmark are exploring national bans and pushing for EU-wide implementation. A German commission recommended a full ban for under-13s.
The European Commission has formed an independent panel on online child safety, due to report in mid-July. Analysts say an under-16 ban is firmly on the table.
Rares Voicu, President of the European Youth Forum, is skeptical of blanket bans, noting social media's role in news and socialization. Researcher Nandi Vijayakumar highlights benefits for identity and friendships.
Professor Notley argues it's too early to deem Australia's ban a success and advises governments to wait for research on its impact before imposing far-reaching restrictions.
Source: www.dw.com