Home

The debate between a total ban and total freedom misses the middle ground: verified parental oversight. The issue isn't the existence of social media, but the algorithmic manipulation designed to keep developing brains addicted. The solution likely lies in forcing tech giants to strip 'engagement features' (like infinite scroll and autoplay) for minor accounts, rather than banning the accounts entirely. We need to redesign the digital playground, not close it down completely.

This is just lazy parenting disguised as government legislation. You cannot legislate good parenting, and trying to ban technology that is fundamental to modern communication will only isolate kids further. If you ban them from the platforms, they will just find underground, unmoderated alternatives that are far more dangerous. Instead of a ban, we need digital literacy education in schools and parents who are actually willing to have tough conversations with their kids instead of handing them an iPad.

We are witnessing the slow-motion destruction of a generation's mental health, and we are doing nothing because of 'freedom.' Banning smartphones or social media for under-16s isn't censorship; it is necessary child protection, exactly like age limits on alcohol, driving, or gambling. The data on anxiety, depression, and attention span collapse since 2012 is undeniable. Kids need the space to be awkward, bored, and make mistakes without a global audience watching and judging them permanently.