2. Potential risks
Content
Social media platforms can expose users to inappropriate or offensive content, including violent, sexual or otherwise harmful content. Algorithms suggest content related to a user’s previous searches or interactions on the platform. This can inadvertently lead young users to unsuitable material.
Additionally, many platforms promote an idealised view of life, with filters, editing tools and curated influencer lifestyles contributing to body image issues and mental health challenges.
Over-sharing personal or sensitive information is another risk, as users often fail to consider the long-term consequences of what they post online.
The use of social media to spread misinformation and disinformation is also an issue. The rise of AI-generated content, including augmented reality tools, is making it increasingly difficult for users to distinguish between content that is real and content which is fake. As a result, it is important young people critically evaluate the authenticity of what they encounter online.
Connecting with others
Engaging with others is the main purpose of social media. Many platforms enable interaction with unknown users. This increases the risk of harassment, exploitation, manipulation and sharing of personal information, so it is important to ensure the relevant privacy settings are applied to your child’s accounts.
Features such as direct messaging and live streaming can lead to unwanted or inappropriate contact, especially for younger users. Other design features could also put them at risk, such as the use of location-based interactions that share users’ live location with others on the platform.
Fake profiles are another issue. These are often created to deceive or harm others.
User behaviour
Bullying and trolling are significant risks on social media platforms. These can have an impact on mental health and well-being. Users can:
- be targeted with negative comments
- have their content shared in ways that humiliate them
Ensure your child knows that content they share online can be copied and reposted, which can make it difficult to remove from the internet.
The design of these platforms is intended to keep users engaged for long periods. This can make it difficult for young people to manage their time effectively. Overexposure to harmful content or behaviours on social media platforms can desensitise some users, normalising inappropriate actions or reducing empathy. Engage with your child to promote healthy online behaviour and awareness of these issues.
Design, data and costs
Social media platforms make use of tools designed to hold the attention of users or to draw them back to the app. The features below are all designed to keep users on a platform or to encourage them to revisit a platform:
- infinite scroll
- streaks
- read receipts
- push notifications
They collect substantial amounts of personal and usage data, which is often shared with advertisers or third parties. This data is used to deliver targeted advertising.
Many platforms also include features such as subscriptions and in-app purchases. These can lead to unnecessary spending. Ensure your child is aware that some influencers are paid to:
- promote products and brands on social media
- share links to online shops