Why Britain Needs to Raise the Digital Age of Consent | Expert Opinions
Enhancing Child Protection Against Social Media in the UK
Denmark’s Bold Move: A Blueprint for the UK?
The United Kingdom faces a pressing imperative: to shield children from the pervasive influence of social media companies, akin to Denmark’s strategic plans. The Danish government’s recent commitment to ban social media for those under the age of 15 serves as a clarion call to other nations to prioritize children’s well-being.
Public Support for Raising the Digital Age of Consent
Recent surveys indicate overwhelming support — with 70% of the UK public advocating — for stricter regulations on social media usage among children and young people. This rising concern lays the groundwork for increasing the digital age of consent from 13 to 16 years old.
The Impact on Youth: More Than Just Screen Time
Social media’s grip extends beyond mere distractions. Notable adverse effects include:
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Shortened attention spans
- Reduced social skills
- Exposure to radical and extreme views
Educational professionals and parents alike witness the ramifications daily, noting students’ fatigue, anxiety, and diminished self-esteem.
The Call for Action: A Multi-Layered Approach
The National Education Union, under the leadership of Daniel Kebede, calls for decisive action. Key recommendations include:
- Raising the social media access age to 16
- Integrating digital literacy into the school curriculum
- Implementing a windfall tax on social media giants to fund mental health services
By adopting these measures, the UK could effectively counter the detrimental effects of social media on children and foster a healthier, more informed young generation.
