Social media ban ‘unlikely to work’: U of A professor

Parents and kids are split on a new social media ban for kids but one social media analyst says it won't be effective. Miriam Valdes-Carletti reports.

As Ottawa looks to ban social media for children under 16, some are skeptical of how effective it would be if implemented.

Noah Castelo, associate professor of business at the University of Alberta, said a ban on social media is unlikely to work because there isn’t really a way to enforce it.

“Research has shown that less than a third of 14 and 15-year-olds are complying,” said Castelo of the recent social media ban in Australia. “There are lots of ways for them to get around it and keep using social media, even though they’re not technically supposed to.”

Castelo suggests a more holistic approach that involves encouraging teens to reduce their time on social media or parents providing incentives for their kids.

“I think the challenge is really around changing norms,” said the associate professor. “Something like public information campaigns that publicize the potential harms of social media I think can be more effective.”

The Alberta government said they are reviewing Ottawa’s Bill C-34, The Safe Social Media Act.

“We believe government policies should focus on empowering parents and ensuring they have the tools they need to protect their children, including measures that give parents greater control over what their children can access online,” said a statement from the Ministry of Technology and Innovation.

In Alberta, schools limit the use of personal mobile devices and access to social media during instructional time, as per the province’s direction.

“These expectations are designed to reduce distractions and maximize learning time,” said a statement from Edmonton Catholic Schools. “We will review as more details become available, particularly with respect to any impact on schools.”

‘They will find their own way’

While many parents have shown support for the ban, others think efforts are futile.

“If you’re forcing the kids, they will find their own way,” said parent Jayaraj John-David. “We just monitor and always keep a watch and guide them.”

Catherine Atasie also believes in monitoring her child’s social media use, but says government intervention couldn’t hurt.

“I think it’s good for them not to use social media,” said the parent. “The government is in a good position to (regulate), and parents also … a team effort.”

Teens say ban is excessive

CTV News Edmonton spoke to several teens about their thoughts on the social media ban, most of whom considered it excessive.

“Social media is an outlet and a way to connect for teenagers,” said 15-year-old Kelsey Lyagan. “Every kid has different needs, so it should be more up to their parents, because they know their kids better … I feel like it’s a little excessive.”

Roxane Yemelemezamo, 14, recognizes the dark side of social media, like bullies and predators, but said it’s not all bad.

“Everything has bad in it. If you’re not online, there are still bads in the real world,” said the teen.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Miriam Valdes-Carletti