Research Binder

Brain Development and Vulnerability:

Prefrontal Cortex & Amygdala: These brain regions responsible for impulse control,
emotional regulation, and social judgment are still under development in pre-teens. Social
media's constant stimulation and pressure to present a perfect online self can overwhelm
these developing systems, leading to heightened emotional responses, impulsivity, and
difficulty navigating online interactions.

Reward System: Social media platforms leverage the brain's reward system, releasing
dopamine (pleasure hormone) with likes, shares, and comments. This can create "likes
addiction," leading to excessive screen time, neglecting other activities, and potentially
impacting attention span and learning.

Developing Identity: During this crucial stage of self-discovery, social media's curated
portrayals and constant comparisons can distort self-perception, leading to confusion, lower
self-esteem, and anxiety about fitting in.

Mental Health:

Depression & Anxiety: Studies link increased social media use in early adolescence to higher
rates of depression and anxiety. Cyberbullying, unrealistic body image pressures, and fear of
missing out (FOMO) contribute significantly to these negative mental health outcomes.

Loneliness & Isolation: While connecting with others is a potential benefit, ironically, social
media can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This is especially true for
children who struggle with social interactions in real life, as online interactions may not
fulfill the need for genuine connection.

Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted from screens and the stimulating nature of social
media can disrupt sleep patterns. Poor sleep further exacerbates mental health issues and
negatively impacts cognitive function and learning.

Cognitive Development:

Attention Deficit & Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Symptoms: Excessive screen time,
particularly with fast-paced, stimulating content, can exacerbate ADHD symptoms like
difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Passively consuming information on social media may
hinder critical thinking skills, as children develop less practice in analyzing information,
questioning sources, and forming their own opinions.

Academic Performance: Time spent on social media displaces time for studying, homework,
and other learning activities, potentially impacting academic performance and educational
development.

Additional Concerns:

Cyberbullying & Online Predators: Children under 13 are more vulnerable to cyberbullying
and online predators due to their limited understanding of online safety and potential naivety
in sharing personal information.

Privacy & Data Security: Sharing personal information on social media platforms exposes
children to data breaches and targeted marketing, jeopardizing their privacy and safety.

Marketing & Consumerism: Children are impressionable targets for advertising and
marketing on social media, potentially influencing unhealthy consumption habits and
unrealistic expectations.

Protective Measures and Alternatives:

Open Communication: Parents and caregivers should maintain open communication with
children about online behavior, safety concerns, and the potential downsides of social media.

Age-Appropriate Alternatives: Exploring educational apps, games, and online platforms

designed specifically for younger children can provide safe and positive online experiences.

Parental Controls & Monitoring: Utilizing parental controls to filter content, limit screen
time, and monitor online activity can provide a layer of protection for children.

Focus on Real-World Interactions: Encourage real-world activities, hobbies, and face-to-face

interactions to foster healthy social development, communication skills, and emotional
well-being.
 Speech

Ladies and gentlemen, dear moderators, students, and teachers, I would like to address a
matter of great importance: the escalating tendency of children under thirteen using their
individual social media pages. Although the virtual realm has much to offer in terms of
communication and individuality, we must also recognize the potential dangers it holds
for young minds.

Consider for a moment the delicate framework of an adolescent mind. The body is still at
a stage where it is trying to perfect its abilities of self-control, emotional regulation, and
decision-making. In the realm of social media, they face various realities and
expectations that are not only unrealistic but can be dangerous as well. With perils like
cyberbullying, image morphing, and even addiction to temporary likes, children are in
danger! Reasearch indicates that people in specific areas suffer from increased levels of
depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, particularly among those who engage in an
online course. Furthermore, children will want to be an iconic person, so they think that
without a good physical body, they are not worthy as human beings.

Although people may have different opinions about whether social media promotes
connection and creativity, it is vital to appreciate the significance of face-to-face contact.
Communication in person, the direct physical experience, and true bonding – all these
form the building blocks of life. This is how one learns empathy, independent thinking,
and emotional intelligence, which are essentials in developing meaningful bonds and
leading fulfilling lives. Does not laughing together with a friend seem warmer than being
with an online stranger?

I should clarify that I’m not against technological development. Technology can help us
in our learning and exploring if we use it correctly. Yet allowing young kids access to
social media when they are yet to know how to use it safely can be compared to driving a
car without knowing traffic rules.

In memory, a complete personality matures not under the illumination of a monitor but
from connections to others and worldly encounters. In this way, would it be right for
children who are below thirteen to have their own independent accounts on social media?
Definitely not. Thank you.