The use of social media: What is the right age for children?

NT, Bengaluru

On the occasion of Children’s Day, it is important to reflect on how social media is shaping the lives of young people in Bengaluru and the larger question of when children should be allowed to use these platforms. Social media has become an integral part of daily life, however, its impact on children and teenagers is a topic of debate, with both positive and negative effects being discussed by experts, parents, and educators alike.

The silver lining of social media; Dr John Vijay Sagar, the Head of the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the National Institute Of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (Nimhans), explained, “Social media can have a positive impact by allowing individuals to stay connected with their peer groups. It also provides opportunities for networking, enabling users to connect with others who share similar hobbies and interests, such as art, sports, coding, and robotics.” “In this digital age, children are not only using social media for entertainment but also for educational purposes. This shift has made social media an essential tool in their lives,” Dr. Sagar added.

Destructive elements of social media; However, social media also has its long list of drawbacks. Dr Sagar pointed out that excessive social media use can reduce the time children spend with their families and hinder real-life interactions. "While online friendships are valuable, they often replace face-toface connections, which are essential for developing social and emotional skills," he said. The rise of cyberbullying and online predators such as catfishing are also significant concerns. Children need to be educated about these risks and guided in using social media responsibly. Parents have a critical role to play in setting boundaries.

“It’s crucial to monitor children’s online activity and ensure they understand the potential consequences of overuse,” Dr. Sagar emphasised. Restricting gadget time, encouraging physical activities and fostering proper posture can help mitigate the risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle. He strongly emphasised that social media is not suitable for children under the age of 13 and that even after that, close monitoring is crucial. He added, “While a complete ban on social media is unrealistic, as it is an integral part of our lives, restrictions are essential.”

Parents’ views; Parents in Bengaluru also have varied opinions on when and how children should be allowed to use social media. Another parent, whose daughter is in class 9, expressed her frustration with the impact of social media. "My daughter used to be a top student until class 3, but after she was given a phone for online classes during the COVID- 19 lockdown, her performance plummeted. She has become lazy, and it is affecting her eating, sleeping and routine habits," she shared.