APA Services filed comments with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) (PDF, 300KB)opens in new window in response to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) request for informationopens in new window on how best to protect youth mental health, safety, and privacy online. Together with AFSP, APA Services shared insights and findings from psychological science with the NTIA to ensure its future regulations align with APA’s goals related to improving the impact of social media on youth (PDF, 431KB)opens in new window.
The comments presented research findings on the current and emerging mental health threats associated with young people’s use of social media, including how its use affects body image, peer relationships, and brain development. The comments also highlighted science on the addictive use of social media and the impact of exposure to harmful content.
The response included important findings on the positive impacts of social media use among youth. These include the potential for self-discovery and increased feelings of belonging and community, especially among LGBTQ+ youth.
The comments also highlighted policy recommendations aimed at encouraging platforms to protect children, including specific suggestions to:
- disable algorithmic promotion of products to minors;
- use tools that detect and prevent the display of harmful content to minors, including content promoting or providing instructions for self-harm, eating disorders, or suicide; and
- allow limited parental monitoring of use in a way that ensures user privacy. Such monitoring would help limit youth use and promote healthy sleep schedules while also providing youth access to engage with online communities.
APA Services and AFSP will continue to encourage Congress and regulators to take substantial steps toward creating a healthier online environment for youth choosing to use social media.
Read the full comment (PDF, 300KB)opens in new window.
For more information, contact Corbin Evans.