As Australia plans to restrict social media access for teens under 16, global discussions have sparked about the impact of such policies.
UAE experts are unsure whether these kinds of measures truly help discourage young people or could potentially hinder their development. While some support the ban, others believe it might have negative effects on children’s growth.
“This is not a simple yes or no issue,” said Nick Hart, Principal at Horizon English School. “The problem is far more complicated. Though there are age limits on social media, they are often ignored with no consequences. Even if we manage to stop children from creating accounts, many parents still allow their kids to access social media through their own devices.”
Australia’s Social Media Move
The Australian government recently announced a new policy that will prevent children under 16 from using social media, holding platforms responsible for ensuring compliance. This decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some believing it’s necessary for protecting young users.
A Call for Change
UAE life coach Anne Jackson supports the Australian policy, calling it a necessary step. “As parents, we wouldn’t leave kids alone with harmful substances or risky financial decisions without proper control, so why should we allow them to use platforms designed to exploit their attention?” she said. “There should have been more protective measures in place long ago, and now we can see the need for a different approach.”
She added, “With growing evidence, it’s clear that we need to rethink how we approach social media, and I hope Australia’s decision is a critical first step toward a healthier future for our youth and technology.”
The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media
Psychologist Sarah Maamari from Sage Clinic sees social media as a double-edged sword. “For some teens, sharing personal achievements can bring pride and joy, but negative comments may damage their confidence,” she said.
“On the other hand, for teens who struggle socially, online communities can offer support and reduce isolation, helping them build connections.”
However, Sarah explained that parents face many challenges as they try to manage their children’s online interactions. “Social media opens up a world beyond their control, and implementing restrictions can lead to resistance. Kids often argue that their friends don’t have similar rules, which makes it harder for parents to maintain boundaries.”
The Challenge of Parenting in the Digital Age
Nick Hart added that the addictive nature of social media makes it more difficult for kids to follow parental rules. “Social media is designed to keep users engaged, and peer pressure can make it even harder for teens to resist. If just a few children in a group get social media, others feel compelled to follow,” he explained.
“Social media also creates its own language and communication channels, making it incredibly difficult for parents to understand what’s going on. The platforms kids use evolve so quickly, making it hard for parents to keep track,” Nick said.
Finding Solutions
All experts agreed that no single entity—be it parents or schools—can solve the issue alone. “A no-phone policy in schools could help, but realistically, the influence beyond school gates is limited,” said Nick Hart.
Sarah Maamari emphasized that parents should lead by example. “Children mirror what they see. If parents set time aside for reading, outdoor activities, and mindful screen time, they create a lasting example,” she said. “Encouraging activities like sports, clubs, or hobbies can also help reduce screen time and foster in-person connections.”
The Need for Regulation
However, Anne Jackson argued that these strategies might not fully combat the addictive nature of social media. “Teens are still learning how to regulate their behavior and evaluate what they see online. This is why regulation becomes so important. Limiting social media access until they are more mature gives them a chance to build a healthier foundation, similar to how we regulate other potentially harmful decisions or substances.”
