Babbage: Teens and their screens

This podcast episode explores the concerns surrounding children's smartphone use, including exposure to extreme content and cyberbullying. It discusses the need to delay smartphone use until at least 14 years old and increase accountability for tech platforms. The responsibility of implementing regulations and policies is debated, with discussions about the relationship between smartphone usage, social media, and mental health. While there is no conclusive evidence on the causation of mental health issues, protective measures and social media literacy are deemed necessary. The section emphasizes the importance of curating children's online experiences, building digital literacy skills, and having conversations about technology use. The podcast concludes with the understanding that finding a balance between the benefits and potential harms of social media is crucial and ongoing conversations and regulation are necessary.