Abstract
The rapid integration of social media into the lives of Indian adolescents presents a complex mix of benefits and challenges, particularly in the realms of mental health, online safety, and digital literacy. While age restrictions or outright bans may offer protections against risks like cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and increased screen time, they also carry potential drawbacks, including digital exclusion, disruption of peer support networks, and limited access to educational and mental health resources. This viewpoint article examines the multifaceted challenges of implementing social media age restrictions in India, considering the diversity in digital literacy, sociocultural factors, and infrastructural disparities between urban and rural areas. Recognizing these complexities, the article proposes alternative approaches, including comprehensive digital literacy programs, enhanced parental involvement, age-appropriate content moderation, and flexible, phased access to social media. By advocating for a balanced, collaborative approach involving policymakers, educators, parents, and platform providers, this article emphasizes the importance of creating a safe yet empowering digital environment that nurtures responsible online engagement. Such a nuanced policy framework would allow Indian adolescents to safely benefit from the positive aspects of social media while minimizing risks, ultimately fostering a generation of resilient, informed digital citizens.
Keywords: Adolescents, age restrictions, digital literacy, digital wellbeing, India, mental health, online safety, parental involvement, policy framework, social media
INTRODUCTION
In the digital era, social media has become a central part of adolescent life, with young people in India increasingly using platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to connect, express themselves, and access information. Post COVID-19, social media adoption surged worldwide, driven by increased reliance on online learning and social networking. In India, where smartphone penetration exceeds 80%, this trend is particularly pronounced, with adolescents constituting a significant proportion of social media users.[1] The rapid rise in social media use among adolescents has brought about both opportunities and challenges, especially concerning mental health and online safety. Studies indicate that while social media offers benefits like enhanced connectivity and educational resources, it also presents risks, including cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and heightened feelings of anxiety and depression.[2] Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to peer influence and social comparison, which can intensify mental health issues and lead to negative self-perception.[3,4] Recent advisories, such as the US Surgeon General’s report on social media’s impact on youth mental health, emphasize the critical need for regulatory safeguards.[5] Globally, several countries are addressing these concerns by introducing age restrictions for social media access to mitigate potential online harms to adolescents. Recently, Australia proposed setting a minimum age limit for social media, reflecting a growing global effort to safeguard young users.[1] In this context, it is timely to examine whether such measures could benefit Indian adolescents. India’s unique sociocultural dynamics, diverse population, and digital divide create both potential advantages and challenges for implementing such a policy. On one hand, limiting social media access could shield adolescents from some of the mental health risks associated with online engagement. On the other hand, such restrictions could inadvertently exclude many young people from accessing valuable digital learning resources and support networks, particularly in rural and underserved regions.[6,7]
This viewpoint article critically evaluates the feasibility and potential impact of social media age restrictions in India, drawing from existing research on adolescent mental health and the practical challenges of policy enforcement in a large, diverse country. It explores whether an outright restriction would benefit Indian adolescents or if a more balanced approach—one that integrates education, parental guidance, and platform accountability—may better suit India’s unique context. Through this analysis, it is aimed to provide insights that can inform policy development, fostering a safer and more supportive digital environment for Indian youth.
MENTAL HEALTH IMPACTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON ADOLESCENTS
Social media has become a significant part of adolescents’ lives, providing opportunities for connection and self-expression but also presenting substantial risks to mental health. Recent studies have increasingly shown that excessive social media use contributes to issues such as anxiety, depression, and lowered self-esteem, particularly among adolescents who are highly sensitive to social validation and are still forming their self-identity.[3,4] The US Surgeon General’s report also provides compelling evidence linking social media exposure to increased risks of anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues in adolescents.[5] Such findings align with Indian studies that highlight the psychological toll in Indian adolescents, where academic pressures and social expectations are particularly high.
Anxiety, depression, and self-esteem
High levels of social media use among adolescents are associated with increased risks of anxiety and depression. Constant exposure to idealized portrayals of others’ lives on platforms like Instagram and TikTok can lead to negative self-comparisons, affecting self-esteem and triggering depressive symptoms.[8] Adolescents are at a developmental stage where they are highly attuned to peers’ perceptions, making them more vulnerable to these comparisons and resulting in a heightened sense of inadequacy and lower self-worth. A meta-analysis by Keles et al. (2020)[4] supports this link, finding significant associations between social media use and anxiety and depression among young users.
Cyberbullying and online harassment
Social media platforms have become hotspots for cyberbullying, which is a key contributor to mental health problems in adolescents. Cyberbullying is particularly damaging because it is pervasive, persistent, and often public, leading to elevated stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data reveal a 15% annual increase in cyberbullying cases targeting adolescents, with girls disproportionately affected.[9] A systematic review by John et al. (2018)[10] found that adolescents who experience cyberbullying are more likely to exhibit psychological distress, with some cases leading to self-harm and suicidal ideation. In India, where mental health stigma can deter young people from seeking help, the psychological impact of cyberbullying may be particularly severe.[11]
Fear of missing out (FOMO) and compulsive use
The phenomenon of “Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO) is another well-documented impact of social media on adolescent mental health. Adolescents frequently checking their social media feeds may feel excluded or isolated when they see peers engaging in activities without them, driving compulsive use patterns. This compulsivity disrupts real-life interactions, academic focus, and overall wellbeing. Research by Oberst et al. (2017)[12] found that FOMO significantly mediates the relationship between social media use and negative emotional experiences, contributing to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
Sleep disruption and academic impact
Late-night social media use often interferes with sleep, which is crucial for adolescents’ mental health and academic performance. Studies have linked social media-induced sleep disruption with increased risks of mood disorders and cognitive impairments. Levenson and his colleagues (2016)[13] observed that young adults who engage with social media at night experience higher rates of sleep disturbances, which correlate with depressive symptoms and impaired academic performance. Similarly, urban adolescents in India report averaging less than 6 hours of sleep per night due to digital engagement, a pattern that exacerbates academic pressures and heightens risks to mental health. Balancing heavy academic demands with late-night social media use further amplifies these adverse effects, making sleep disruption a critical concern for Indian youth.[13]
Balancing benefits with moderation
Despite the concerns, social media can offer social support and a sense of community, which may be beneficial when used in moderation. Online communities enable adolescents to connect with peers and access resources on various topics, including mental health and academic support. However, as Best et al. (2014)[14] noted, while social media can facilitate positive interactions, the risks associated with excessive use underscore the importance of promoting balanced engagement.
In summary, while social media has the potential to foster connection and support, excessive use poses significant risks to adolescent mental health, including increased anxiety, depression, cyberbullying, and sleep disruption. Addressing these issues requires a dual approach: promoting digital literacy and encouraging responsible usage, alongside implementing policies that foster a safer digital environment.
GLOBAL POLICY RESPONSES TO SOCIAL MEDIA AGE RESTRICTIONS
Countries worldwide have implemented diverse strategies to regulate adolescent access to social media, aiming to mitigate potential risks and safeguard mental health. These policies vary widely in their scope and enforcement mechanisms. A comparative overview of key global policies is presented in Table 1.
Table 1.
Global policy responses to social media age restrictions
| Country | Minimum Age (in years) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 13+ | The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) mandates parental consent before collecting data from users under 13 years.[2] |
| European Union | 16+ (or 13) | GDPR requires digital consent at age 16 years, though member states may lower it to 13 years.[15] |
| Australia | Proposed 16+ | Proposed legislation aims to address youth mental health risks by raising the minimum age to 16.[16] |
| France | 15+ | Requires parental consent for users under 15.[17] |
| United Kingdom | No explicit age | The Online Safety Act mandates protection against harmful content, empowering Ofcom to enforce compliance and impose penalties.[18] |
| Norway | Proposed 15+ | Plans to raise the minimum age to 15 to mitigate early exposure’s social pressures and mental health risks.[19] |
For example, several regions have established minimum age thresholds for social media usage to address privacy concerns and reduce exposure to harmful content. While the United States relies on the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) to mandate parental consent for users under 13, other regions, such as the European Union, implement consent requirements through GDPR, with variations among member states. Similarly, countries like France and Australia have proposed or enacted legislation aimed at protecting younger users through age verification and parental oversight mechanisms. See Table 1 for a detailed summary of these and other global policy measures.
CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTING SOCIAL MEDIA AGE RESTRICTIONS IN INDIA
India faces significant obstacles in implementing social media age restrictions due to its diverse population, evolving digital landscape, and socioeconomic disparities. Key challenges, based on recent research, are discussed below:
Enforcement complexity
India’s vast and diverse population, with over 800 million internet users, complicates the enforcement of age restrictions. Research indicates that in many countries with strict policies, adolescents often bypass age verification by misrepresenting their age.[20,21] Given India’s extensive technological disparity across regions, ensuring consistent compliance remains difficult.[22]
Privacy and security concerns
Effective age restrictions often require reliable age verification, which may involve sensitive data collection, such as government IDs or biometric data. However, India’s data privacy regulations are still maturing, raising concerns about securely handling minors’ data. Studies emphasize that age verification’s success relies on robust privacy protections, which are not yet fully established in India.[23]
Variability in digital literacy and awareness
India’s digital literacy levels vary widely between urban and rural areas, and many adolescents and their families remain unaware of online risks. Without foundational digital safety education, age restrictions alone may not adequately protect young users. Research suggests that digital literacy initiatives are essential for the effective implementation of such policies.[24]
Risk of exacerbating the digital divide
For adolescents in underserved regions, social media often serves as a critical source of information and social connection. Strict age restrictions could widen the digital divide, particularly for marginalized groups reliant on social media for educational support and community engagement. Evidence shows that policies restricting digital access can disproportionately affect these populations, limiting their access to resources.[25]
Potential shift to unregulated platforms
Restricting mainstream social media access could drive adolescents toward less-regulated platforms where they may face greater risks. European research reveals that when young users face restrictions on popular platforms, they frequently migrate to alternatives with minimal moderation and safety measures.[26]
Sociocultural diversity and family dynamics
India’s diverse cultural and family structures influence adolescents’ digital engagement, with varying levels of parental involvement. In some areas, joint family systems allow for closer monitoring, while in others, children have greater digital independence. This variation complicates a standardized approach to age restrictions as family attitudes toward social media access differ widely.[27]
Technological constraints in rural areas
Limited Internet access and technological infrastructure in rural India hinder the implementation of sophisticated age verification systems, resulting in inconsistent policy enforcement. Research indicates that inadequate digital infrastructure significantly reduces the effectiveness of age restrictions, particularly in remote regions.[25]
POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF AGE RESTRICTION IN INDIA
Implementing age restrictions on social media for adolescents in India could yield several protective benefits, particularly regarding mental health, online safety, and academic focus. Setting a minimum age for social media access could foster a safer digital environment for Indian adolescents, offering developmental and psychological advantages suited to India’s unique context.
Mental health protection
Age restrictions could help shield adolescents from mental health risks linked to excessive social media use. Studies have consistently shown that heavy social media use increases risks of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem in adolescents, who are especially vulnerable to social comparisons and peer validation.[4] Maurya and his colleagues (2024)[28] identified a significant bidirectional relationship between social media usage and depressive symptoms among Indian adolescents. The study highlights that excessive social media use exacerbates depression, while adolescents with depressive symptoms are more likely to engage in prolonged use, underscoring the need for mindful social media practices.[28] In India, where academic pressures are intense, limiting young users’ social media exposure could alleviate mental health issues tied to negative self-comparisons and social pressures.[8]
Reduced exposure to cyberbullying and online harassment
Cyberbullying and online harassment have been shown to significantly impact adolescent mental health, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.[10] For Indian adolescents, where mental health stigma often prevents open discussions, limiting social media use through age restrictions may reduce exposure to cyberbullying. This delay in access would allow young users to develop greater resilience and maturity before entering potentially hostile online spaces.
Enhanced academic focus and cognitive development
Excessive social media usage can interfere with academic focus and productivity as adolescents may find it challenging to manage study time effectively.[13] Given India’s emphasis on academic achievement, reducing social media distractions through age restrictions could support better academic performance and cognitive development by freeing up time for learning and physical activities rather than digital engagement.[29]
Protection from misinformation and harmful content
Adolescents are frequently exposed to misinformation, sensationalist content, and violent or inappropriate material on social media. In India, where digital literacy varies significantly, many adolescents may not have the skills to critically evaluate online content.[20] By delaying access to social media, age restrictions could help limit young users’ exposure to misleading information until they develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate digital spaces responsibly.
Encouragement of real-world social skills
Delaying social media access could provide adolescents with more opportunities to engage in face-to-face interactions, which are essential for developing social skills. Research has shown that excessive social media use can reduce real-life social engagement, leading to loneliness and weakened interpersonal skills.[14] In the Indian context, where social interactions and family involvement play a significant role in adolescence, age restrictions could encourage healthier offline social development.
Increased parental involvement and guidance
An age restriction policy may empower parents to play a more active role in managing their children’s digital activities. Studies suggest that parental guidance and supervision are crucial for adolescents’ safe and balanced use of social media.[27] In India, age restrictions could allow parents to gradually introduce their children to social media, offering guidance on responsible use and reinforcing family values around digital engagement.
Implementing age restrictions on social media in India could offer multiple benefits, from safeguarding mental health and reducing exposure to harmful content to fostering academic focus and social skill development. These potential advantages highlight the need for a culturally sensitive approach to social media regulation, emphasizing responsible use tailored to the developmental needs of Indian adolescents. A carefully enforced age restriction policy, combined with digital literacy education and parental involvement, could create a safer online environment for India’s youth.
RISKS OF SOCIAL MEDIA BANS FOR ADOLESCENTS
Implementing a complete ban on social media access for adolescents could lead to unintended adverse effects, particularly for those from underserved backgrounds who rely on digital platforms for educational content, mental health resources, and social support. The key risks associated with a strict ban are as follows:
Digital exclusion and widening the digital divide
Adolescents in rural or low-income areas often depend on social media for access to learning materials, scholarships, and peer connections. A ban risks deepening the digital divide by cutting off marginalized students from these critical resources, thereby limiting educational and career opportunities. Digital exclusion not only exacerbates inequalities but also hinders social mobility, particularly for adolescents who rely on social media as an educational and social resource.[20]
Loss of peer support and social connections
Social media plays a key role in adolescent socialization, allowing youth to build supportive networks. In India, where offline avenues for self-expression may be restricted by cultural norms, social media offers a unique space for emotional and social support. Research indicates that online connections provide a sense of belonging, which benefits mental health, especially for adolescents with limited offline support.[8,14] A ban could increase social isolation, potentially exacerbating mental health concerns.
Shift toward unregulated platforms
Restrictions on mainstream social media may push adolescents to less regulated and potentially harmful platforms. Studies from other countries show that when popular platforms are banned, adolescents often turn to unmonitored sites, which heightens exposure to unregulated content and increases risks such as cyberbullying.[26] In India, where regulatory oversight on smaller platforms is limited, such a shift could increase exposure to exploitation, misinformation, and other online risks.
Reduced access to mental health resources
Social media frequently provides adolescents with access to mental health resources and support communities, especially in areas lacking mental health services. In India, where mental health infrastructure is still developing, social media can serve as a valuable source of information and support for young people managing mental health concerns.[10] A ban could reduce access to these resources, potentially worsening mental health outcomes.
Inhibited digital literacy and preparedness
Social media can enhance digital literacy skills, which are increasingly essential in academic and career contexts. Banning adolescents from social media might hinder the development of competencies such as navigating online environments, evaluating information critically, and practicing safe online behavior. The lack of digital literacy may put young people at a disadvantage in today’s digitally driven world.[29]
Limited outlets for self-expression and identity formation
Adolescence is a critical period for identity exploration, and social media provides a platform for self-expression and interest exploration. This is particularly important in India, where offline forms of expression may be constrained by cultural expectations. Research underscores that self-expression positively influences self-esteem and identity development.[30] A ban could hinder these processes, potentially affecting adolescents’ self-concept and wellbeing.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A BALANCED APPROACH TO SOCIAL MEDIA REGULATION
Given these risks, it is recommended to have a balanced approach to social media regulation that combines digital education, parental involvement, and platform-based safety measures to mitigate potential harms while preserving social media’s benefits. The following guidelines outline effective strategies for achieving this balance:
Implement Comprehensive Digital Literacy Programs in Schools: Schools should incorporate digital literacy training into curricula, focusing on safe and responsible social media use. Key topics include privacy management, recognizing misinformation, and cyberbullying prevention. Studies show that digital literacy training helps adolescents critically assess online content and engage safely on social media, supporting their mental health and development.[20]
Encourage Parental Involvement and Digital Education: Educating parents on digital safety is essential in fostering responsible social media habits. Providing resources, workshops, and tools to help parents set guidelines for social media usage enables them to supervise their children’s online activities effectively. Evidence indicates that parental engagement helps reduce excessive social media use and fosters a healthier digital environment.[14]
Advocate for Age-Appropriate Platform Safety Features and Privacy Controls: Social media platforms should adopt age-specific safety features, such as content filters and privacy settings, to create secure environments for younger users. Collaboration with technology companies on features like AI-driven monitoring and cyberbullying detection would help safeguard adolescents on digital platforms.[20]
Develop School-Based Programs Promoting Balanced Social Media Use: Schools play a critical role in teaching adolescents about balanced social media usage. Workshops on screen time management, fostering offline relationships, and recognizing signs of social media addiction can help young users maintain a healthy relationship with digital technology. Structured programs within schools provide guidance on positive online behavior, reinforcing skills for balanced social media use.
Establish Peer Support Networks and Digital WellBeing Campaigns: Peer-led initiatives, such as digital ambassadors and support groups, foster positive social media habits by encouraging safe online practices. Adolescents often find peer influence relatable, and support from peers can strengthen mental resilience and promote responsible social media use.[8]
Implement Gradual and Flexible Age-Based Access to Social Media: A flexible approach to age-based restrictions, which allows controlled access for younger adolescents with gradually increasing privileges, can provide a balanced solution. This model helps adolescents build digital resilience and skills over time, aligning with their developmental needs. The gradual access approach also provides opportunities for education on responsible digital behavior.
Strengthen Adolescent Data Privacy and Protection Policies: Strong privacy protections are essential to safe online experiences for adolescents. Policymakers should enforce strict data protection policies to secure adolescents’ data, build trust in online platforms, and form a foundation for effective social media regulation in India.
A balanced regulatory approach—focusing on digital literacy, parental guidance, platform safety features, and gradual access—can create a safer digital environment for adolescents in India. Mental health professionals, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to provide adolescents with the tools and skills to engage safely in the digital world while preserving the social, educational, and emotional benefits that social media can offer. This multifaceted strategy supports the development and wellbeing of India’s youth, ensuring that digital engagement aligns with their mental health and developmental needs.
CONCLUSION
Effective regulation of social media use among adolescents in India requires a holistic approach that balances protection with access to the positive aspects of digital engagement. Adolescents benefit significantly from the educational, social, and emotional resources available through social media, yet they are also susceptible to risks such as cyberbullying, mental health challenges, and exposure to inappropriate content. Implementing a nuanced regulatory framework—encompassing digital literacy education, parental guidance, age-appropriate platform features, and phased access—can help safeguard adolescents while fostering a supportive and enriching digital environment.
A collaborative strategy involving policymakers, educators, parents, and social media platforms is essential to achieve this balance. Digital literacy programs integrated into school curricula will empower adolescents with the skills to navigate online spaces responsibly. Parental involvement provides additional oversight and helps adolescents establish healthy digital habits. Social media platforms, on their part, must ensure age-specific privacy settings, content moderation, and support resources are readily available to young users.
By adopting a flexible, developmentally appropriate approach, India can protect adolescents from digital risks while ensuring they retain access to resources that support their growth and wellbeing. A balanced policy framework that emphasizes education, responsibility, and safety will ultimately contribute to nurturing a generation of resilient and informed digital users, prepared to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.
Funding Statement
Nil.
REFERENCES
- 1.Australian Government . Canberra: Australian Government; 2024. Proposal for Social Media Age Restrictions. [Google Scholar]
- 2.Weir K. Social media brings benefits and risks to teens. Psychology can help identify a path forward. Am Psychol Assoc. 2023;54:46. [Google Scholar]
- 3.Vannucci A, Flannery KM, Ohannessian CM. Social media use and anxiety in emerging adults. J Affect Disord. 2017;207:163–6. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2016.08.040. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 4.Keles B, McCrae N, Grealish A. A systematic review: The influence of social media on depression, anxiety, and psychological distress in adolescents. Int J Adolesc Youth. 2020;25:79–93. [Google Scholar]
- 5.U.S. Department of Health and Human Services . Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2023. Social Media and Youth Mental Health: The U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory. [Google Scholar]
- 6.McDool E, Powell P, Roberts J, Taylor K. Social Media Use and Children’s Wellbeing. IZA Discussion Paper No. 10412. 2016. Available from: https://www.iza.org/publications/dp/10412/social-media-use-and-childrens-wellbeing/
- 7.Riehm KE, Feder KA, Tormohlen KN, Crum RM, Young AS, Green KM, et al. Associations between time spent using social media and internalizing and externalizing problems among US youth. JAMA Psychiatry. 2019;76:1266–73. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.2325. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 8.Twenge JM, Campbell WK. Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Prev Med Rep. 2018;12:271–83. doi: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.10.003. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 9.National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) New Delhi: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India; 2022. Crime in India 2022: Statistics. [Google Scholar]
- 10.John A, Glendenning AC, Marchant A, Montgomery P, Stewart A, Wood S, et al. Self-harm, suicidal behaviours, and cyberbullying in children and young people: Systematic review. J Med Internet Res. 2018;20:e129. doi: 10.2196/jmir.9044. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 11.Zhu C, Huang S, Evans R, Zhang W. Cyberbullying among adolescents and children: A comprehensive review of the global situation, risk factors, and preventive measures. Front Public Health. 2021;9:634909. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.634909. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 12.Oberst U, Wegmann E, Stodt B, Brand M, Chamarro A. Negative consequences from heavy social networking in adolescents: The mediating role of fear of missing out. J Adolesc. 2017;55:51–60. doi: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2016.12.008. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 13.Levenson JC, Shensa A, Sidani JE, Colditz JB, Primack BA. The association between social media use and sleep disturbance among young adults. Prev Med. 2016;85:36–41. doi: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2016.01.001. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 14.Best P, Manktelow R, Taylor B. Online communication, social media and adolescent wellbeing: A systematic narrative review. Child Youth Serv Rev. 2014;41:27–36. [Google Scholar]
- 15.Information Commissioner’s Office Age-appropriate design code: A code of practice for online services. 2023 Available form: https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/uk-gdpr-guidance-and-resources/childrens-information/childrens-code-guidance-and-resources/age-appropriate-design-a-code-of-practice-for-online-services/ . [Last accessed on 2024 Jan 30] [Google Scholar]
- 16.Humphry J, Boichak O, Hutchinson J. Sydney: University of Sydney; 2023. Emerging online safety issues: Co-creating social media with young people-Research Report. Available from: https://hdl.handle.net/2123/31689 . doi: 10.25910/7v6p-wj74. [Last accessed on 2024 Nov 09] [Google Scholar]
- 17.Légifrance LOI no 2023-XYZ du 29 juin 2023 visant à protéger les mineurssur les réseauxsociaux. J Off RepubliqueFrancaise. 2023. Available from: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr . [Last accessed on 2024 Dec 27]
- 18.Ofcom Online safety: Ofcom’s roadmap to regulation. 2022. Available from: https://www.ofcom.org.uk/siteassets/resources/documents/online-safety/information-for-industry/roadmap/online-safety-roadmap.pdf?LinkSource=PassleApp&v=328170 . [Last accessed on 2024 Jan 30]
- 19.Cuthbertson A. Norway to raise minimum age to be on social media to 15. The Independent. 2024. Oct 24, Available from: https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/norway-social-media-age-limit-b2634803.html . [Last accessed on 2024 Dec 27]
- 20.Livingstone S, Stoilova M, Nandagiri R. Children’s data and privacy online: Growing up in a digital age. Media Commun. 2021;9:192–204. [Google Scholar]
- 21.Hjetland GJ, Schønning V, Hella RT, Veseth M, Skogen JC. How do Norwegian adolescents experience the role of social media in relation to mental health and well-being: A qualitative study. BMC Psychol. 2021;9:78. doi: 10.1186/s40359-021-00582-x. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 22.Panda I, Chhatar DC, Mharana B. A brief view to digital divide in Indian scenario. Int J Sci Res Publ. 2013;3:1–7. [Google Scholar]
- 23.Data Catalyst Data Minors: Challenges with digital age verification. 2024. Available from: https://datacatalyst.org/reports/data-minors-challenges-with-digital-age-verification/ . [Last accessed on 2024 Dec 27]
- 24.Audrin C, Audrin B. Key factors in digital literacy in learning and education: A systematic literature review using text mining. Educ Inf Technol. 2022;27:7395–419. [Google Scholar]
- 25.Kathuria R, Kedia M, Sekhani R, Sinha S. New Delhi: Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations; 2021. Building an inclusive digital society for rural India. Available from: https://icrier.org/pdf/Building_an_Inclusive_Digital_Society_for_Rural_India.pdf . [Last accessed on 2024 Dec 27] [Google Scholar]
- 26.Sala A, Porcaro L, Gómez E. Social media use and adolescents’ mental health and well-being: An umbrella review. Comput Human Behav Rep. 2024;14:100404. [Google Scholar]
- 27.Hasumi T, Ahsan F, Couper CM, Aguayo JL, Jacobsen KH. Parental involvement and mental well-being of Indian adolescents. Indian Pediatr. 2012;49:915–8. doi: 10.1007/s13312-012-0218-y. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 28.Maurya R, Patel S, Singh A. Social media use and its bidirectional relationship with depressive symptoms in Indian adolescents: Evidence from a longitudinal study. BMC Public Health. 2024;24:1567. [Google Scholar]
- 29.Reddy S, Krishna M. Social media and its impact on academic achievement and critical thinking on higher education students in India. Int J EducDev Using ICT. 2021;17:34–52. [Google Scholar]
- 30.Anjum R, Naeem Z, Chaudhary AA, Asif Q, Rehman A. The impact of social media use on adolescent well-being and academic performance. J Educ Soc Sci. 2024;5:426–34. [Google Scholar]