Instead of Banning Social Media, What Can We Do?

As researchers deeply invested in the well-being of children and adolescents, we find ourselves at a critical juncture regarding the proposed age restrictions on social media use. While we acknowledge the valid concerns surrounding problematic usage and the role of technology companies in creating addictive designs, we harbor significant skepticism towards the Norwegian government's proposal for an under-16 age limit on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

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We are skeptical of the government's proposal for an age limit for children and young people under 16.

Our reservations are informed by international experiences, most notably Australia's recent implementation of a similar ban. The initial findings from Australia raise serious red flags. Rather than ceasing their online activities, many young people have simply migrated to less regulated, and potentially more dubious, social media platforms. Apps like Coverstar and Lemon8, the latter owned by the same parent company as TikTok, have seen a surge in popularity. These platforms often lack the oversight and safety features of their more established counterparts, creating a new set of risks for vulnerable users.

Furthermore, the practical enforcement of such bans appears to be a significant challenge. Australian data indicates that a substantial majority of young people still manage to access platforms like TikTok and Instagram, either because the platforms fail to adequately verify age or because users employ creative workarounds. Strategies such as using others' identification, employing filters to appear older, or utilizing VPNs are common. It is highly probable that Norwegian youth would employ similar tactics, rendering the ban largely ineffective in its intended purpose.

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The young people who are no longer there are largely on far more questionable social media.

Instead of focusing on prohibition, we believe a more constructive approach lies in fostering positive alternatives. Many young people rely on social media for vital social connections, maintaining friendships, pursuing interests, and finding community, especially if they move frequently or live in areas with limited local opportunities. Our focus should be on creating and enhancing accessible, engaging community arenas – both online and offline – that provide these essential social outlets and support systems, thereby reducing the perceived necessity and allure of unregulated digital spaces.

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There is no reason to believe that Norwegian youth will not use similar strategies to circumvent a possible ban.