surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Sunday warned that despite many app guidelines, a 13-year-old is too young to be on social media.
“What is the appropriate age for a child to start using social media? Currently, looking at the platform guidelines, I am concerned that at 13, children are technically allowed to use social media.” However, I have two concerns about it: First, I personally believe that 13 is too early, based on the data I’ve seen.
Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other major social media platforms allow users 13 and older to join, create their own profile, and share and consume content.
“In early adolescence, children are developing their own identities and egos. , and the distorted and often distorted environment of social media often penalizes these children,” said the surgeon. the general insisted.
Murthy’s second concern is the inconsistent implementation of many rules and reliance on children using social media to coordinate their participation on the platform.
“We have some of the best designers and product developers in the world who have designed these products to help people get the most out of the time they spend on these platforms. Use your willpower to control how much time you spend.” [on social media]”You’re putting your kids up against the best product designers in the world, and it’s not a fair fight. That’s why I think our kids need help,” Mercy said.
Murthy’s comments come amid ongoing concerns in Congress about video-sharing app TikTok, which has ties to the Chinese Communist Party and potential dangers to children and their data. .
Researchers and lawmakers have long debated both the health and security risks of children consuming social media content and sharing their data on apps.
The Surgeon General has called for greater transparency and safety standards for social media platforms and apps before they hit the digital marketplace.
“Most of the products I buy and use in my home today are of the type that meet some sort of safety standard in order to be sold. .
.
