Social media: Harvesting young people's data and attention for profit

The pernicious effects of social media on our children have gone on for far too long. It is becoming an increasing concern for parents and teachers alike.

Smartphones have accelerated access to harmful online content and the algorithms of web giants like Instagram and TikTok ensure that it reaches people faster than before. These companies enrich themselves at the cost of the majority. They are exacerbating the mental health crisis of our young people without any sense of social responsibility.

It cannot be disputed that excess screentime distracts from learning and has a negative impact on children’s education. Young minds are highly vulnerable to habit-forming behaviours that can lead to depression, anxiety and self-harm. It is no coincidence that the rise in social media over the past 20 years parallels a growth in poor mental health among young people.