The proliferation of social media has been one of the most significant cultural shifts in recent decades, offering a platform for connection, creativity, and sharing. However, the act of creating social media pages for children has become a contentious topic, with many experts raising concerns about potential dangers to safety and mental health.

Safety Concerns

When a child’s profile is created on social media, it can inadvertently become a beacon for online predators. According to a report by the eSafety Commissioner, 1 in 4 young Australians has experienced unwanted contact from strangers online (eSafety Commissioner, 2021). These interactions can range from unsolicited messages to more serious grooming behaviours. By establishing a social media presence for a child, there is a risk of exposing them to such dangers, especially when personal information is shared.

Moreover, the digital footprint that is created is permanent and can affect a child’s future. Once information is uploaded to the internet, it is difficult to completely erase. This can lead to privacy concerns and potentially impact future opportunities. A child’s online presence could be searched by future employers, educators, and peers, which might influence their perceptions and decisions.

Mental Health Implications

From a psychological perspective, there is a consensus that early exposure to social media can have detrimental effects on a child’s mental health. The pressure to maintain a certain image and the constant comparison to others can lead to issues with self-esteem and body image. A study in the journal “JAMA Pediatrics” found that greater social media use was associated with greater mental health difficulties among children and adolescents (Twenge & Campbell, 2018).

Additionally, the instant gratification and the addictive nature of social media likes and comments can lead to a dependency on social validation. This can distort a child’s sense of self-worth, tying it too closely to their online persona and the feedback it receives. The “Australian Psychology Society” has highlighted that high use of social networks increases feelings of loneliness and depression (APS, 2020).

Impact of Early Social Media Use on Development

Child development theories posit that the early years are critical for the development of social skills, emotional regulation, and identity. Piaget’s theory of cognitive development suggests that during the concrete operational stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 7 and 11, children begin to think logically about concrete events but still struggle with abstract concepts (Piaget, 1952). This indicates that younger children may not have the cognitive ability to navigate the complexities of social media and understand the long-term consequences of their online behaviour.

Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory further underscores the role of environmental influences on child development (Vygotsky, 1978). The premature introduction of social media as an environmental factor can interfere with this natural progression, replacing traditional modes of learning and socialization with digital interactions that lack the richness and depth of face-to-face encounters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while social media can offer valuable opportunities for expression and connection, creating social media profiles for children introduces risks that must be carefully weighed. The considerations around safety, privacy, and mental health are significant and supported by a growing body of research. Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to protect children from the potential harms of social media, while also educating them on responsible use as they mature. To safeguard the wellbeing of younger generations, a cautious approach is warranted, with an emphasis on oversight and education about the digital world they inhabit.

References

• eSafety Commissioner. (2021). Annual Report 2020-21. eSafety Commissioner.
• Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). Association of screen time and depression in adolescence. JAMA Pediatrics, 172(9), 850-858.
• Australian Psychology Society (APS). (2020). Digital me: A survey exploring the effect of social media and digital technology on Australians’ wellbeing.
• Piaget, J. (1952). The origins of intelligence in children. International Universities Press.
• Vygotsky, L. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

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