Banning teens from social media may shield them, but also have adverse effects
PETALING JAYA: As Australia draws closer towards banning social media for children under 16, questions have arisen whether a similar approach by Malaysia would be a proactive move or a potential misstep.
Some experts who have studied social media use and its influence on youth said while the move could have noble intentions, an outright ban could lead to social deprivation and hinder the development of crucial digital literacy.
Others, however, say such a ban could be good for minors as they may not be mature enough to handle content found on such platforms.
Criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy of Universiti Sains Malaysia said while such a ban might protect their mental health and reduce their exposure to harmful content, it may also limit the personal and creative expression of children through videos, art and writing.
Apart from enabling youth to stay in contact with friends and peers, social media has become an essential tool for connecting with people across borders, said Sundramoorthy of USM’s Centre for Policy Research.
Restricting social media use could hinder children from developing international friendships, learning about other cultures, and gaining a global perspective on important issues.
“Social media can be a tool for learning and exploring new ideas, cultures and topics. A blanket ban could restrict access to valuable educational resources and could result in social isolation and feelings of exclusion from peer groups, especially in a world that is becoming increasingly digital,” he added.
In what he announced as a “world-leading” plan on Nov 7, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the country will introduce a law that would bar children under the age of 16 from using social media.
“Whether Malaysia should follow suit requires a careful analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of such a step,” Sundramoorthy said.
He added that a ban would require effective enforcement and children could find ways to circumvent the restrictions by using virtual private networks (VPNs) or creating fake accounts.
Moreover, Sundramoorthy said parents may also find it hard to enforce such a ban at home in a practical and consistent manner.
He, however, admitted that social media platforms may foster unhealthy tendencies, unrealistic expectations and “comparison culture” among young people, causing them to suffer anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues.
Sundramoorthy said these platforms can also be hotbeds for bullying, harassment, adult content, violence, or extremist views.
“All of such problems could perhaps be mitigated with restricted usage. However, instead of an outright ban, a more balanced approach that involves improved regulation, digital literacy education, and the promotion of safer social media environments may protect children while allowing them to engage with the digital world in a healthy and productive way,” he said.
Psychologist Prof Dr Intan Hashimah Mohd Hashim had similar views, saying that a ban could be counterproductive.
“Banning may limit children from opportunities to interact with others and a chance to learn and discover new things,” said Prof Intan Hashimah, also of USM.
Social media could also be a platform to give and receive support on various matters and help in their personal growth, she added.
“Banning social media may encourage minors to use it illegally and put them at higher risk of ending up as a victim to predators and other crimes lurking online,” said the social psychology researcher.
A better solution would be to provide a comprehensive guide to minors on the safe use of social media and close supervision by an adult or their parents, she said.
A social media ban may also psychologically affect children, especially those who rely on it as their main source of social support, she added.
Asst Prof Dr Tan Soon Aun of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman said a ban could be a good step as minors may not be mature enough to handle certain areas or content on social media wisely.
He said while social media literacy is important and should be advocated at an earlier age, its adverse effects may not be immediate and may only emerge over time.
He added that it is undeniable that social media platforms shorten the geographical distance between people and provide wider social interaction.
However, heavy social media use may limit the development of children’s interpersonal skills, said Tan of UTAR’s Department of Psychology and Counselling.
“Over-relying on social interaction online may lead to youth not knowing how to socialise and interact with people in person. This will lead to tendencies to socially isolate or withdraw from physical social interactions.
“In this aspect, social media may hinder the social skill development of children if they are glued or addicted to it,” said the academician, who specialises in adolescent development and family studies.
