The ninth annual American Family Survey, based on data from the 2023 survey conducted by YouGov for the Deseret News and Brigham Young University’s Wheatley Institute, highlights concerns over children’s social media use. The survey, which polled 3,000 adults in the United States, reveals that overuse of technology is now a top concern for parents, second only to mental health.
Approximately two-thirds of parents with teenagers aged 13-17 report taking measures to monitor their children’s social media activities. This includes implementing content restrictions, restricting private messaging and accounts, contacts, and screen time. However, over a third of parents do not take any action to monitor their children’s social media use.
Jeremy C. Pope, a professor of political science at BYU and one of the study authors, expresses skepticism about finding a one-size-fits-all solution to address the problems associated with children’s social media use. He believes that the issues vary from child to child and may require individualized solutions rather than government intervention.
The survey also reveals that parents worry about the type of content their children may encounter on social media platforms, as well as what their children might post. However, many parents are not actively addressing these concerns. Only a third of parents talk to their children about managing emotions related to social media, while around half discuss inaccurate or misleading information and excessive time spent on social media.
The survey findings also indicate that parents have mixed views on government regulation and the right to sue big tech companies for harm caused by social media use. While over two-thirds of respondents support government regulations requiring social media companies to enforce age restrictions, only 38.4 percent believe parents should be allowed to sue and claim damages on behalf of their children.
In conclusion, the American Family Survey highlights the growing concerns among parents regarding their children’s social media use. While many parents take steps to monitor and restrict access, finding effective solutions remains a challenge. The survey suggests that parents engage in conversations with their children about online safety and address specific concerns related to social media use.