Germans Demand Stricter Social Media Age Limits Amid Growing Concerns for Youth
A significant majority of Germans, particularly adults, express concern over the impact of social media and smartphones on children and teenagers, with 85% supporting a minimum age of 16 for social media use. This comes as 78% of teenagers and 58% of adults spend over an hour daily on social media during weekdays.
The growing worry stems from issues such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and potential harm to mental health and academic performance. Around two thirds of children and young people own a smartphone, with 66% of teenagers wanting AI to be taught in schools. A clear majority supports a ban on smartphones in schools, with 64% of adults and 57% to 63% of teenagers agreeing.
Politicians are taking note. Thuringian Minister-President Mario Voigt compares social media's impact to alcohol and cigarettes, advocating for an age limit. Sahra Wagenknecht, chairwoman of the Left party, suggests a legally regulated minimum age following the Australian model.
With more than a quarter of children and young people engaging in risky media consumption, the call for stricter regulations gains traction. The debate highlights the need to balance the benefits of technology with protecting young people's well-being and development.
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