Recently, in Florida, a new law drew attention because it addresses a very current issue: the use of social media by children and adolescents. Governor Ron DeSantis approved a rule that prohibits the creation of social media profiles for anyone under the age of 14. For teenagers aged 14 and 15, parental permission is now required. Furthermore, accounts that already exist but do not follow this standard must be deactivated.
The challenges of the new law
This measure, considered one of the strictest in the United States to date, attempts to address the dangers that social networks can pose to younger people. These dangers range from damage to mental health even security issues.
However, the law also raises questions about parents’ autonomy in deciding what is best for their children regarding the use of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Health and technology experts agree that something needs to be done. Daniel Becker, for example, pediatrician and public health specialist, suggests that similar measures should be adopted elsewhere, including Brazil.
He warns about the risks of the internet for young people who are still developing their emotional maturity and capacity for critical judgment.
Filipe Medon, from FGV Direito Rio, recognizes the dangers, but questions whether a complete ban is the best solution. It highlights the risk of violations of privacyas platforms would need to monitor user data more closely to comply with the law.
The importance of supervision and education
For Gustavo Teixeira, psychiatrist, many parents struggle to understand the internet and the risks associated with early use of social networks. He believes the state should impose limits to protect children. Meanwhile, Becker highlights how social media can intensify problems like anorexia or bulimia in teenagers who are insecure about their image.
Marcella Bianca, a neuropsychologist, sees the law as a complement to parents’ efforts, not a substitute. She and other experts emphasize the need for a collective approach to protecting young people from the harmful aspects of social media, including the development of addictions and the impact on self-esteem.
Antonielle Freitas and Juan Las Casas highlight that the responsibility for protecting children online is shared between the State, parents and the platforms themselves. They believe regulations like Florida’s could encourage global changes to technology companies’ privacy and data protection policies.
With information from Portal O Globo.
