Ban Social Media for Under-16s? A Rotorua Doctor's Compelling Call to Action
In an age where social media pervades every aspect of life, a Rotorua paediatrician, Dr. Aimee Kettoola, is standing firm on a revolutionary proposition: banning social media for those under 16. Her call comes amidst growing concerns over the detrimental effects these platforms have on young people. As stated in NZ Herald, the implications of this potential ban carry substantial weight for society.
The Battle Against Online Threats
Dr. Kettoola has witnessed firsthand the grim outcomes of social media involvement, having worked closely with at-risk youth. The alarming rise in cases of online grooming and predatory behavior has catalyzed her advocacy for legislative reforms. She highlights harrowing cases, such as that of Raveen Saily, who exploited social platforms to groom and assault minors, shining a spotlight on the urgent need for change.
The Psychological Toll on Young Minds
The damage inflicted by social media isn’t restricted to physical threats. Kettoola outlines a spectrum of mental health issues exacerbated by these platforms, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. “The barrage of harmful imagery,” as she describes, is something young minds aren’t prepared to handle, leading to pervasive psychological effects.
Legislative Change: A Path to a Safer Digital Age
Kettoola’s fight is supported by B416, a lobby group demanding age restrictions and stronger digital protections. Their advocacy is underpinned by a bleak statistic: over 2000 cases of harmful digital communications involving under-16s since 2015. These include online harassment and privacy breaches, with very few resulting in court action.
A Movement Gaining Momentum
The pressing issue has reached New Zealand’s governmental corridors. With Prime Minister Christopher Luxon prioritizing the Social Media Age-Restricted Users Bill, an official inquiry is now underway to gauge the online harms facing young New Zealanders. The findings could indeed reshape the nation’s digital landscape and inform global practices.
The Future of Youth and Digital Interaction
Dr. Samantha Marsh, B416’s spokesperson, eloquently compares the situation: “We don’t let 12-year-olds into nightclubs. Why allow them in internet spaces carefully crafted to addict and influence?” The outcry underscores the necessity of reassessing how youth interact with social media. As more voices join this cause, the spotlight stays firmly on a pressing question: How can we nurture a safer online environment?
This movement, poised to redefine youth social media access, echoe’s a commitment to safeguarding the future by reshaping today’s digital norms.
