For pediatricians, it is necessary for parents to discuss with their children their mental health but also their use of social networks.
- According to a survey, a majority of parents believe that social networks contribute to the deterioration of the mental health of their children.
- Specialists recommend that parents talk about social networks and their use with children.
- Many parents find it difficult to talk about mental health with their offspring.
Social media harms children. At least that’s what their parents think. According to a study by the association On Our Sleeves, dedicated to the mental health of children, parents believe that they are responsible for the deterioration of the mental health of their offspring. “According to a new national survey conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of the On Our Sleeves For Children’s Mental Health movement, half (50%) of parents of children under the age of 18 believe that the mental health of their child(ren) ) child(ren) has deteriorated in the last 12 months due to the use of social networks”, explains the organization in a communicated.
Social networks acclaimed by children
The survey shows that American parents are increasingly critical of social networks. “The number of Americans who say children’s use of social media has a positive influence on their mental health has fallen to just over a third (35%), from 43% in 2022“, specify the authors of this study. In principle, the platforms prohibit the youngest from accessing the content published. For example, you must be over 13 years old to use Instagram. But according to a study carried out by Infobip and YouGov in 2021 , relayed by LSA, many children still use social networks: out of 652 children born from 2010, 40% were already registered on a platform such as TikTok, Snapchat or Instagram. 18% of 6-7 year olds have an account in their name according to the data from this survey.
Mental health: how to protect children?
Dr. Ariana Hoet, pediatric psychologist, points out that these digital platforms can have positive effects: some can help develop a sense of community, relationships and self-understanding. But others can be harmful. “Social media can increase anxiety and depression in children when used inappropriately, and potentially expose them to inappropriate sharing, hurtful language, bullying and more.”, she warns. To limit the risks, she explains that it is important to communicate with the youngest. “Be curious about what your child is doing on social media, she indicates. Taking an active role in their use of social media, rather than simply limiting their exposure, can help them feel comfortable asking questions, reporting fears, and asking for help when they need it.“However, fewer and fewer parents say they talk about mental health to their children. In 2023, 86% of parents surveyed say they are comfortable talking about this subject with their offspring, compared to 91% in 2022 .
