Technology and youth
Report
Teens, social media and technology 2024
Amid concerns about technology’s impact on youth, many teens are as digitally connected as ever. Most U.S. teens use social media and have a smartphone, and nearly half say they’re online almost constantly, according to this survey of young people aged 13 to 17.
Briefing paper
Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024: bill digest
An overview and analysis of the Bill that proposes introducing a minimum age of 16 for social media use in Australia. The digest notes that although the bill has bipartisan support, experts and researchers in relevant fields have encouraged the government to pursue alternative action. Age restrictions will not commence for at least 12 months.
Report
Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 [Provisions]
This report outlines proposed amendments to the Online Safety Act 2021, specifically the introduction of a minimum age of 16 for social media use and the legislation of a Digital Duty of Care for digital platforms. The report calls for these changes to be implemented within 12 months, recommending engagement and consultation with young people...
Survey Report
Impact of pornography on young people
A survey exploring young Australians' attitudes to gender, sex, relationships and pornography finds that young people are accessing pornographic material earlier than previously reported, and that early exposure can have significant negative impacts. The report recommends measures governments can take to reduce harm to children and young people.
Journal article
Social media: the root cause of rising youth self‐harm or a convenient scapegoat?
This paper explores the parallel rise in social media use and youth mental health problems. It argues that increased social media use may be a correlate, exacerbating factor, or a consequence of rising trends in youth self‐harm, which may have entirely separate causes. This complexity highlights the need for a considered approach.