Colman Noctor: Protecting children means tackling social media's harms

Colman Noctor: A lot of harm social media causes stems from algorithmic recommendations. Picture: iStock 

The British government’s recent plans to restrict children’s access to social media ignited a familiar debate. On one side are those who argue that social media is causing significant harm to young people’s mental health and social development and needs to be banned. On the other side, others warn that blanket bans may create as many problems as they solve.

As an academic, a clinician, and a parent, I can see the argument from both sides.