Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. surgeon general, has issued a call to action for immediate steps to protect the mental health of children and adolescents in the realm of social media.
With social media platforms and lawmakers having made insufficient progress in addressing the challenges posed by secretive algorithms, addictive apps, and inappropriate content, parents and young people continue to shoulder the responsibility of navigating this complex landscape.
Dr. Murthy has shared essential tips for parents, caregivers, and young people to ensure safer and healthier social media use.
Tips for Young People
- Reach out for help: Dr. Murthy emphasizes the importance of seeking support from trusted friends or adults if social media has a negative impact. The American Academy of Pediatrics provides guidance on social media that can offer additional assistance.
- Create boundaries: Establishing limits on device usage is crucial. Young people should refrain from using phones, tablets, and computers for at least one hour before bedtime and during the night to prioritize quality sleep. Mealtimes and in-person gatherings should be device-free to foster social bonds and engage in meaningful conversations. Prioritize face-to-face interactions and unplugged experiences daily.
- Be cautious about sharing: Dr. Murthy advises young people to exercise caution when sharing personal information online. Given the public nature of online platforms and the potential permanence of shared content, selectivity in posting and sharing is essential. When in doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid posting uncertain content.
- Address harassment and abuse: No one should endure harassment or abuse in silence. Dr. Murthy encourages young people to confide in at least one trusted individual, such as a close friend, family member, counselor, or teacher, who can provide the necessary support.
- Tips for reporting cyberbullying can be found on resources such as stopbullying.gov.
- For assistance with online harassment from a dating partner, Love is Respect provides expert help.
- To remove unauthorized sharing of private images, Take It Down offers guidance.
Tips for Parents and Caregivers
- Create a family media plan: To establish healthy technology boundaries at home, Dr. Murthy recommends developing a family media plan. This plan can facilitate open discussions among family members regarding screen time balance, content boundaries, and the importance of not disclosing personal information online.
- Establish tech-free zones: To promote healthier relationships with technology, it is crucial to restrict electronic device usage at least one hour before bedtime and during meals. Promote the development of social skills and the cultivation of in-person relationships in children by encouraging unstructured and offline connections.
- Model responsible behavior: Parents play a vital role in setting an example of responsible and healthy social media use. Limiting their own usage, being mindful of sharing information or content about their child, and modeling positive behavior on social media accounts can have a significant impact on their children’s understanding of responsible online conduct.
- Empower kids: Dr. Murthy emphasizes the importance of teaching children about technology and empowering them to be responsible online participants when they reach an appropriate age. Participate in discussions regarding the advantages and dangers of social media, emphasizing the importance of privacy and safeguarding personal information. Regularly converse about their online encounters, connections, privacy settings, and the amount of time they spend online.
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the burden falls upon parents, caregivers, and young people themselves to navigate the challenges posed by social media platforms. The U.S. surgeon general’s tips offer practical and actionable advice to ensure a healthier and safer online experience for children and adolescents. By fostering open discussions, setting boundaries, modeling responsible behavior, and empowering young people, families can work together to mitigate the potential negative impacts of social media and promote overall well-being.
