Facebook and Instagram prohibit teenagers from accessing content related to eating disorders and self-harm.
The consumption habits of teenagers on social media have always been a topic of controversy. They have had the ability to access a wide range of content, including material that is clearly inappropriate for their age and level of experience. While major platforms like Meta have not disclosed specific data on how different types of content impact the minds of teenagers, governments worldwide are worried about how young people perceive such content. In an effort to address this issue, Meta Platforms has made an announcement that they will prohibit teenagers from accessing harmful content, such as self-harm, nudity, suicide, eating disorders, and more. Find out what Meta had to say about this new initiative.
It has been reported that Meta has highlighted the changes after facing multiple lawsuits from dozens of US states. They argued that the content on its social media platforms was damaging young minds and creating a mental health crisis.
Teenagers are prohibited from viewing harmful content on Facebook and Instagram
According to the Meta blog, the company has developed different strategies for teenagers to have an age-appropriate experience on Facebook and Instagram. It said the company has introduced 30 tools and resources to help teenagers and parents manage sensitive issues. The platform’s goal is to provide the right kind of content on their Explore page and reels so that teens don’t have to see content that wasn’t made for them, even if someone they follow shares it.”
If a young user tries to find content related to suicide, eating disorders or nudity on Facebook and Instagram, they will be directed to useful resource platforms such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Dr. Rachel Rodgers, Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, said, “These policies reflect current understanding and expert guidance on teen safety and well-being. As these changes move forward, they provide parents with good opportunities to talk with their teens about how to navigate difficult topics .”
The changes will be rolled out to young people under the age of 18 on Instagram and Facebook gradually over the coming months. The changes include content management settings, content recommendations and search queries, as well as new security and privacy settings designed for teenagers.
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