Factual situation: Why the debate is justified
Social media usage starts early: 95 percent of 10 to 18-year-olds in Germany are active on social networks (spring). According to the terms and conditions, many platforms are actually only allowed from the age of 13 or 16 — but there are hardly any age checks. The parental consent requirement, as set out in the General Data Protection Regulation, is rarely met in practice. Children often log on themselves or use third-party access data.
Studies show that children and young people are spending more and more time with TikTok, Instagram or Snapchat. This not only promotes addictive behavior, but also has a negative effect on sleep duration, self-image and psychological stability. According to research, there are increased risks of depressive moods, anxiety disorders, body dissatisfaction and reduced self-esteem, particularly in early adolescence. Young people compare themselves with idealized representations, develop unrealistic expectations of themselves and often feel social pressure (Orben et al., 2022).
There are also problems such as cyberbullying, cybergrooming and uncontrolled access to content that is harmful to young people. Platforms use targeted manipulative design patterns (so-called “dark patterns”) to increase usage time and dependency (Source: DAK study 2023). This includes endlessly scrollable feeds, notifications, likes or snapstreaks, which activate the reward system in the brain and emotionally bind young users.
Child and adolescent psychologists also report a decline in social skills when real social experiences are replaced by digital communication. Intensive media use often suppresses healthy sleep, exercise, creative play or interpersonal conversations.
What are other countries saying?
Australia is a global pioneer: At the end of 2024, a law was passed that only allows the use of social media from the age of 16 (Source: ABC News). Platforms must check the age statement — there is severe penalties for violations. The law provides for technical age verification, for example through identity data or AI-based facial analysis. The aim is to protect children from manipulative content and to relieve parents of media education.
In France, too, an age limit of 15 years was enshrined in law with parental consent (Source: France24). A national commission even recommends using social media only after 18. Spain is currently discussing similar measures. An expert report is clearly in favour of simple cell phones instead of smartphones for children.
In the USA, individual states such as Utah or Arkansas have passed laws that require parental consent and technical restrictions such as usage time limits (Source: NPR). There is currently no legal age limit in Germany, but social pressure to address the issue politically is growing.
Are there any demonstrable positive effects?
Long-term studies on legal age limits are missing so far. However, research shows that anyone who starts using social media later is generally more emotionally stable, less susceptible to negative comparative pressure and better able to assess risks. Studies identify critical phases in development — particularly between 11 and 14 years — when social media can be particularly harmful (Orben et al., 2022).
A British study speaks of “sensitive windows,” in which digital influences have a particularly strong effect. Anyone who goes through this phase without constant use of social media often develops a more stable self-esteem and better coping strategies. Even the DAK study 2023 from Germany shows: A significant proportion of young people show risky usage patterns with effects on mental health, sleep and social behavior.
Not all use of social media is automatically problematic — moderate use can also have neutral or even positive effects. However, many experts point out that subsequent exposure to problematic content — such as body shaming, hate speech, or sexualized content — can have a protective effect.
Criticism: General and out of touch with reality?
Critics warn against solutions that are too easy. A general ban could easily be circumvented, for example by providing incorrect age information, using VPN or switching to unofficial platforms. There is also a risk that children will be forced into unregulated digital spaces that offer even less protection (Source: Guardian Australia).
Social media also offer opportunities: for creativity, exchange, self-help and information. Particularly marginalized groups benefit from digital spaces, such as queer young people, neurodiverse children or those with special interests. For them, social media is often also a place of strengthening.
There are also data protection concerns: Age verification via ID or facial recognition could create new risks. Storing or sharing sensitive data is a problem, especially when platforms do not deal with it transparently. Technical implementation is also complex.
The right to digital participation must also be observed. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child guarantees children access to information and appropriate media content (Article 17, UN CRC). Many experts are therefore more likely to call for better protection mechanisms on the platforms: age-appropriate content, secure default settings, screen time limits and effective reporting functions.
Professional educational associations are more in favour of supervised media education. The aim is to empower children to deal with digital content in a reflective and competent manner. Because at some point, they must learn to navigate digital worlds.
Conclusion: Balancing protection and participation
The risks of early social media use are well documented. International initiatives such as those in Australia show that stricter age limits are being seriously discussed and some have already been implemented. However, whether a general ban under 16 years of age is the best option remains an open question.
The important thing is that the debate is justified — and it should be fact-based, differentiated and conducted in a child-friendly manner. Children and young people need protection, but also opportunities. Digital living environments are an integral part of growing up. The central question is therefore not just: “Ban or release?” , but: How do we design digital spaces in which children can grow up, learn and develop safely?
A blanket ban alone will not solve the problems. Good concepts, technical solutions, political frameworks and, last but not least, the commitment of parents, schools and society are needed. Because everyday digital life of the next generation concerns us all.
