NI Teens Speak Out: Social Media Ban Sparks Debate and Digital Dilemmas

A new rule is being discussed in Northern Ireland that would ban children under 16 from using social media by spring 2027. This ban would include popular platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X, but not WhatsApp or Signal. The education minister, Paul Givan, called this a major change and said that it is often a struggle for parents to limit their children's use of mobile phones. He believes that the negative effects of social media are greater than the benefits, especially for young people. According to Givan, using social media at a young age can lead to low self-esteem and other problems. He said that the government should help parents by supporting this ban and that technology companies should do more to stop young people from accessing these platforms.

Students at Malone Integrated College in Belfast shared their opinions with BBC News NI. Shea, who is 15, said that social media should be improved instead of completely blocked. He pointed out that YouTube has many useful videos, such as tutorials and guides, which help students learn new things like coding. Shea argued that while there are negative aspects to social media, it is better to make it safer rather than take it away. He also mentioned that many young people do not have many activities to do outside of social media, especially since some families cannot afford clubs or other activities. Siya, another student, said that those who run social media apps should be held responsible for the dangers. She explained that most resources for students are online, and social media is important for both schoolwork and keeping in touch with friends. Siya also said that even if there is a ban, people will try to find ways around it, such as using VPNs.

Sophia, another student, said that young people should be taught how to use social media safely instead of being banned from it. She uses YouTube a lot for studying and was surprised that it would be included in the ban. Sophia believes that if young people are not allowed to use social media, they might not become confident or skilled in using it when they are older. She thinks it is more important to teach children how to be safe online. Some adults support the ban, like Dr Claire Sinton, who said that social media is not suitable for children and that the new rule will help families. However, Professor Kevin Curran, a cyber security expert, disagrees. He thinks the ban is too harsh and will not work as planned. He said that children will find other ways to use social media, which could make it even harder to control. He also said that YouTube is helpful for education and that many teenagers use it to learn new things. The discussion about the social media ban is ongoing, with strong opinions on both sides.