Technology · Singapore Bureau
Parents, youths favour gradual social media access over complete ban
A majority of Singaporean parents and young people support a tiered approach to social media usage rather than outright prohibition, according to findings from a public engagement exercise. Excessive social media consumption emerged as a leading concern among over 2,000 respondents consulted by the Ministry of Digital Development and Information.
LSN Singapore ·
The Ministry of Digital Development and Information's engagement initiative has revealed public preference for a regulated, age-appropriate framework governing social media access among young people. The consultation, which drew input from more than 2,000 parents and youths across the island, identified excessive social media usage as a primary worry for families navigating the digital landscape.
The tiered access model gaining support would allow graduated exposure to social platforms based on age and maturity levels, rather than implementing a complete prohibition. This approach reflects broader recognition that social media plays an increasingly integral role in how young people communicate, access information, and participate in society.
The findings underscore ongoing efforts by Singapore's digital authorities to balance child safety and wellbeing with the realities of modern connectivity. Excessive screen time and its potential impacts on mental health, academic performance, and social development have become focal points in discussions about regulating youth access to digital platforms.
The ministry's consultation feeds into policy development aimed at protecting young users while respecting their growing independence and digital participation. Officials are expected to use the public feedback to refine recommendations for digital wellness standards and age-appropriate safeguards in the coming months.