Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has signed a new bill, the Social Media Safety Act, which makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to use social media without obtaining parental consent.
The bill requires social media companies to verify the age of any new user who lives in Arkansas, using a digitized identification card or a commercially reasonable age verification method through a third-party vendor. Failure to comply with the age verification process could result in a fine of $2,500 per violation, and social media companies would be responsible for the legal fees of families who choose to sue.
This bill is part of a larger effort by government officials to more strictly regulate what children and teens do online, recognizing that many have lied about their age on the internet in the past.
Social media can have harmful effects on children and teens in a number of ways. Here are some of the potential negative impacts:
Cyberbullying: Social media can make it easier for kids and teens to be bullied by their peers. Cyberbullying can take many forms, including spreading rumors, posting embarrassing photos, and making hurtful comments.
Low self-esteem: Constant exposure to idealized images and curated lifestyles on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, particularly in children and teens who are still developing their sense of self.
Addiction: Social media can be addictive, and children and teens who spend too much time on these platforms may struggle to regulate their usage. This can lead to a range of negative consequences, including difficulty sleeping and problems with focus and attention.
Negative body image: Social media is full of images of idealized bodies, and exposure to these images can lead to negative body image and unhealthy eating habits.
Privacy concerns: Children and teens may not fully understand the privacy implications of sharing personal information and images on social media, which can leave them vulnerable to online predators and identity theft.
Overall, while social media can have some benefits for children and teens, it’s important to be aware of the potential negative impacts and to take steps to minimize them. This may include setting limits on usage, monitoring online activity, and having open and honest conversations about the risks and benefits of social media.