The UK government has announced plans to introduce age or functionality restrictions on social media for under-16s, sparking debate about the potential benefits of stepping away from these platforms. Experts suggest that reducing or eliminating social media use could improve attention spans, sleep, and family dynamics.
Liat Hughes Joshi, author of How To Unplug Your Child, notes that the fast-paced swipe culture of social media overstimulates children, making offline activities like reading seem dull. Removing this stimulation can slow down their world and improve focus. Clinical psychologist Dr Hannah Sugarman adds that constant switching between apps harms sustained attention, and training out of that habit leaves children better equipped to concentrate.
Social media's algorithmic design fosters anxiety through constant comparisons with curated lives, particularly affecting girls. Hughes Joshi highlights that anxiety stems from overstimulation, body image comparisons, and inappropriate content. Both experts agree that a detox can reduce these feelings, as real-world interactions provide more balanced input for self-esteem and mood.
Sleep quality also suffers from social media use, due to its addictive nature and exposure to harmful content. Sugarman explains that unrestricted access keeps young brains engaged, delaying sleep and fueling low mood. Hughes Joshi adds that exhaustion from social media can impair learning and concentration at school, while well-rested children are easier to manage.
Family life may also improve, as Hughes Joshi warns that parents who post everything online can make children feel their lives are for public show. Social media fuels competitive parenting, with constant comparisons over possessions and events. Stepping away helps parents become less performative and more present, reducing unhealthy comparisons and fostering healthier family relationships.
