Excessive social media use is raising concerns about the mental health, development and safety of children in Jamaica.
Findings from a just released National Study on Social Media Use and the Protection of Children, has linked excessive screen time with anxiety, depression and digital addiction.
The study also identified concerns about sleep, self-esteem, social isolation and reduced physical activity.
According to the findings, 70 per cent of minors sleep for fewer than eight hours, highlighting concerns about the effects of digital habits on children’s well-being.
Children also face risks from harmful interactions and content online, including cyberbullying, grooming attempts by online predators, misinformation and exposure to violent or sexually explicit material.
The study further raises concerns about algorithm-driven content, which can target young users and potentially influence their attention and emotional development.
Principal investigator, Dr Steven Johnson, said the nature of online harm is becoming increasingly difficult to manage.
“Online harms are becoming more complex and difficult to detect. We have algorithms that are targeting our minors… and we have global technology companies that are currently operating largely outside of Jamaica’s regulatory reach,” Johnson said during a press conference to discuss the findings.
The concerns identified by the study extend beyond what children encounter online and include the effect social media use can have on relationships within families.
Director of Adolescent Mental Health, Dr. Ganesh Shetty questioned whether families are becoming increasingly disconnected despite living together.
“We’re in the same house, but we are disconnected. Think about it,” Dr. Shetty said.
The concern is particularly significant as parents and families are identified as an important part of protecting children from online harms.
The study found that parents and schools received the highest levels of trust among those responsible for protecting children online.
Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton said the issue extends beyond technology.
“These are no longer simply technology issues. They are public health issues. They are child protection issues and they are national development issues,” Dr. Tufton said.
The findings also point to concerns about the wider online environment in which Jamaican children are being raised.
Dr. Tufton raised concerns about the role of some local online platforms and content creators.
“Some of our local platforms are more vitriolic and spew more hate, rumors and propaganda and everything that’s negative… and promote a spirit of divisiveness in our society,” he said.
The health minister said the government’s objective should be to ensure that children can benefit from technology while being protected from its potential harms.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness is expected to use the study to support national dialogue and public education on children’s online safety.