Social media overuse among minors is becoming a concerning topic. Several studies conducted over the period show its consequences on youngsters’ mental and physical health. Concerned Brazil Institutes filed lawsuits against these social media companies that failed to apply proper guidelines for children’s well-being. Brazil’s Collective Defense Institute, a consumer rights group has filed two lawsuits against TikTok Brazil, Kwai, and Meta Platforms. These lawsuits demand 3 billion reais or $525.27 million from the companies for not creating mechanisms to protect minor’s health.
Social Media Giants On The Lawsuits And Minor’s Well-Being
The Social Media giants, Kwai, Meta Platforms, and Brazillian units of TikTok are facing lawsuits from Brazilian institutes due to a lack of concern for the minors’ health. According to the lawsuit, companies must be transparent about the potential health risks to teenager’s and children’s health with the overuse of their social media platforms. Thus, they must draw a clear mechanism and issue warnings about the same. Several studies that found the different consequences of social media overuse on children and teenagers support this lawsuit. It makes the claims even stronger.
Another question arises why is this lawsuit important? How can social media impact children’s health? Some studies have clearly shown that social media overuse can cause brain damage. It can increase anxiety levels among individuals. We often see one of three people either depressed, stressed, or anxious. Social media overuse is a major reason. Every reel creates different sought of emotions in the human mind.
Thus, a child gets emotions like happiness, pleasure, achievement, anger, and motivation within a few seconds on a scroll. However, it requires much hard work or action to be acquired in real life. Thus, the brain gets used to getting these pleasures without working hard for them. It makes us lazy over time. These are just a few of the total impacts that overuse creates on our brains. These social media giants have replied to the lawsuit recently.
Kwai has said that user safety is one of its priorities, especially when it comes to minors. While Meta Platforms has said that they have announced a “Teen Account” for Instagram. It will soon be available in Brazil as well. It will automatically limit such inappropriate accounts or content from teen’s accounts. Also, it will help limit their screen time. It can be beneficial for sure if applied properly. Stay tuned for more information on our website.