With growing concerns of the impact social media is having on younger audiences, by spring 2027, social media platforms in the UK are to be blocked from offering services to under 16s in an attempt to reduce media related mental health problems in minors, and to set new norms for future generations.
Hear from Poke Intern, Tara:
About 95% of UK teenagers (aged between 13-17) regularly use social media, with nearly 3 in 10 children experiencing cyber bullying or abusive behavior online, and more than a third of the 95% reporting almost constant use of social media.
There are increasing concerns among older generations such as parents, teachers, healthcare experts etc. on the impact social media is having on youth mental health, safety and socialization. Spending excessive amounts of time on social media can negatively affect sleep, concentration and academic performance. It can also expose young audiences to unrealistic lifestyles and standards, which can create a sense of poor self esteem and poor body image amongst them. By setting these restrictions for under 16s, the government hope to reduce these negative impacts and create a safer environment for children.
What could be the impact?
While these restrictions could be beneficial, they could also lead to children finding prohibited ways to access social media. This could have a huge negative impact on younger generations, leading them to normalizing going against government set rules and age restrictions. Studies estimate that around 10% of adolescents suffer with social anxiety, and therefore lean towards things such as social media or online chat rooms to socialize without the in person pressures. By banning social media for these children, it could lead to self isolation, loneliness and even depression.
Although there are valid arguments for and against the restriction of media for under 16s in the UK, I strongly think that in a few years it will have proven heavily beneficial as it will be seen by the future minor generations as normal, instead of something everyone tries to rebel against.