The innate curiosity and intrinsic desire of children and teenagers to explore the world around them should ideally unfold in an environment free from potential dangers, allowing them to nurture their thoughts and talents.
However, one of the most pressing threats to a child’s development and psychological well-being is the utilization of social networks by individuals under the age of 15.
Recognizing the gravity of this issue, some countries, notably France, have implemented legal measures to safeguard the well-being of children and adolescents.
The French Parliament has enacted legislation mandating parental consent for children under 15 to access social networks. This signifies that children must obtain their parents’ approval before creating accounts or participating in social media platforms. Additionally, parents hold the authority to suspend their children’s social media accounts if they are under the age of 15.
These regulations extend to widely-used platforms such as “Snapchat,” “TikTok,” and “Instagram.” In France, the government acknowledges the potential harm that unrestricted social media use can inflict on the psychological well-being of young individuals.
The French National Assembly has successfully passed this bill, receiving approval from the Senate as well. This demonstrates a collective commitment to safeguarding the mental and emotional development of children and teenagers in the digital age.
