#273 Who Should Be Responsible For Keeping Children Off Social Media?

In this episode, Niall asks the pressing question: Who should be responsible for keeping children off social media? With the Health Minister proposing to challenge social media companies to limit access for under-16s, the debate continues over whether this responsibility should fall on the government, tech companies, or parents.

Some callers argue that it’s primarily the parents' responsibility. They believe that parents are in the best position to monitor and manage their children's online activities. Relying on the government or tech companies to police kids' online behavior is not practical or effective. Parents should set clear rules, actively engage in their children's digital lives, and educate them about the risks associated with social media. Personal responsibility is key, and parents need to step up to protect their kids.

Meanwhile, other callers feel that government intervention is necessary. They argue that tech companies prioritize profits over child safety and cannot be trusted to self-regulate. Therefore, strong legislation is needed to enforce age restrictions and protect children from harmful content and online predators. Given the increasing links between social media use and mental health issues among youth, it’s crucial for the government to establish strict regulations. Tech companies should also be held accountable for ensuring their platforms are safe for younger users.

Niall wraps up the discussion by highlighting the need for a balanced approach, where parents, the government, and tech companies each play a role in safeguarding children online. He acknowledges the challenges of monitoring children's social media use in a digital age and emphasizes the importance of collaboration to create a safer online environment for the younger generation.