Blue light, addiction, the vehemence of social networks… Our cell phones are often considered harmful and aggressive. But there is an age when children should absolutely not go near it.
Letting a child walk around with the phone is often the easiest way out. Fascinated by his screen, he remains calm and focused on the object he holds in his hands, without taking into account the world around him. Access to the telephone and registration on social networks occurs at an increasingly younger age, but experts are unanimous: you have to wait until a certain age before letting your children join Instagram, Tiktok or even Snapchat.
The consequences of using social networks too early are considerable. Fun and captivating, they can captivate your children for hours and unknowingly disrupt their cognitive and psychological development. Platforms like Tiktok or Instagram therefore seem to be dangerous for children.
Dr. Mitch Prinstein, an American clinical psychologist and expert on adolescent mental health, says that regularly surfing a social network at an early age carries risks of sleep and concentration problems, as well as the danger of depression. Supported by the American Psychological Association, the professional states that “Children should not have access to social media before the age of 13 at least years”.
But it is precisely the entry into middle school that marks the appearance of smartphones and social networks among the majority of young people, that is, between 11 and 12 years old, according to a survey recent study of the Observatory on Parenting and Digital Education (OPEN). A trap era. According to CNIL data published when the digital majority at 15 was introduced, more than half of children between 10 and 14 are also present on social networks.
In reality it all depends on the maturity of the child. If at 13 he still doesn’t seem ready to face the complexity of networks, there’s nothing to stop him from postponing the age limit and waiting a few more years. The later it is accessed, the fewer harmful consequences there will be. 16 would be the ideal age, according to experts.
If your child approaches online platforms early enough, it is advisable to supervise their activities and monitor their use. With your adult perspective, you will be able to better identify good content from bad and clean up the flow.
Without parental supervision, the child can abandon his ability to self-regulate (50% of adolescents show at least one sign of addiction to the networks) and spend many hours in front of the screen. It can also address narcotic, violent, or even dangerous content, such as the numerous Tiktok challenges that pollute virtual spaces.
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mitch Prinstein! Thank you for joining us today. As a clinical psychologist and an expert on adolescent mental health, your insights are invaluable. Let’s dive straight in—why is the exposure to social media a significant concern for children under 13?
Dr. Mitch Prinstein: Thank you for having me! The primary concern with social media exposure at such a young age is its profound impact on cognitive and psychological development. Children are naturally curious, and social media platforms can be incredibly captivating. However, this overstimulation can hinder their ability to focus and develop critical thinking skills. They may become so absorbed in the virtual world that they neglect real-life interactions and experiences.
Time.news Editor: That’s a crucial point! We often hear that children can become addicted to their devices. How does this addiction manifest itself, and what are the long-term consequences?
Dr. Mitch Prinstein: Internet and smartphone addiction can manifest in several ways, including anxiety when away from devices, prioritizing online interactions over face-to-face communication, and experiencing changes in sleep patterns due to late-night screen time. Long-term consequences could include chronic sleep disturbances, difficulties with attention and concentration, and even increased risk for mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Time.news Editor: It sounds alarming. You mentioned that the American Psychological Association advises against social media access before age 13. What factors influenced this recommendation?
Dr. Mitch Prinstein: The recommendation stems from extensive research indicating that children’s brains are still developing, particularly in areas that govern impulse control, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Before age 13, children are often not equipped to process the complex dynamics of social media, such as online bullying or the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards often showcased on these platforms.
Time.news Editor: Given the pervasive nature of smartphones and social media in today’s society, what alternative strategies do you recommend for parents who wish to manage their child’s screen time effectively?
Dr. Mitch Prinstein: Encouraging other forms of engagement is key. Parents can promote outdoor activities, creative play, or family game nights to foster connection and relationship-building. Setting specific rules around screen time—such as no screens at dinner or before bed—can also help children develop healthier habits. Additionally, teaching children about responsible online behavior, even before they are allowed to use social media, can prepare them for future engagement.
Time.news Editor: That’s practical advice! how can we foster an open dialogue with children about the potential dangers of social media without overwhelming them?
Dr. Mitch Prinstein: Open communication is essential. Parents should frame conversations around social media in a relatable way, using examples children can understand. Discussing hypothetical situations and encouraging children to express their feelings about what they see online can promote critical thinking. Parents should also invite questions, making it clear that they can discuss anything that concerns them without fear of judgment.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Prinstein, for these insightful perspectives. It’s clear that while social media can offer connectivity, there is a pressing need for parents to be vigilant about their children’s screen exposure. Your expertise can help guide families toward healthier habits in an increasingly digital world.
Dr. Mitch Prinstein: Thank you for the thoughtful discussion! It’s crucial that we work together as a society to ensure a safer, healthier online environment for our children.