Under-16 social-media ban — a great idea from Down Under
New York PostNOV 2024
Australia Bans Social Media for Under-16s
Above: Students look at their phones in Melbourne on Nov. 28, 2024, as Australia looks to ban children under 16 from social media. Image copyright: William West/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The ban is necessary to protect young people's mental health and well-being from social media's harmful effects, including bullying and addiction, while giving parents peace of mind about their children's online safety.
Narrative B
The legislation is too blunt an instrument that could isolate vulnerable youth, push them to more dangerous parts of the internet, and fails to address the positive aspects of social media for young people's mental health and sense of connection.