When discussing social media and its impact on youth, the conversation often becomes polarized. Some focus solely on the potential harms, advocating for restrictive policies that limit or completely deny young people access to technology and the internet. At The White Hatter, we take a different approach, one grounded in evidence-based research. Instead of reacting to fear-driven narratives, we assess concerns through a proof beyond a reasonable doubt approach, carefully weighing the preponderance of credible evidence-based data.
However, there are groups that argue that any risk to youth, no matter how small, justifies preventing access to social media and technology. Their reasoning is that any potential harm, regardless of probability, is too great a threat to allow young people to engage within these digital spaces. This absolutist stance raises an important question: if any risk is unacceptable when it comes to technology, how do these same groups reconcile their stance when it comes to medicine, where potential harm is acknowledged, yet the benefits of treatment still justify its use?
In the field of medicine, it is widely accepted that almost all treatments carry some level of risk. Despite this, we continue to use them because the benefits overwhelmingly outweigh the potential for harm. Take vaccines, for example. While they may cause mild side effects such as fever or fatigue, and in extremely rare cases may lead to more serious reactions, the overwhelming data supports their use in preventing life-threatening diseases. In most cases, society does not ban vaccines due to these risks. Instead, medical professionals and regulatory bodies weigh the risks against the benefits and make informed recommendations. When we don’t do this, communities, and more importantly youth and teens, are at risk (1)
Similarly, antibiotics, while lifesaving, are known to cause side effects ranging from minor stomach discomfort to severe allergic reactions. Even though there is a small chance of an adverse reaction, antibiotics remain a cornerstone of modern medicine because they effectively combat bacterial infections that, if left untreated, could be deadly. The decision to use these medications is not based on an unrealistic expectation of zero risk, but rather on an informed understanding that their benefits far outweigh their potential downsides.
This approach demonstrates a key principle: managing risk does not mean eliminating it entirely. Instead, it means making informed decisions that balance potential harm against significant benefits. If we accept this reasoning for medical treatments, why do some reject the same logic when it comes to social media and technology?
Beyond medicine, there are numerous everyday activities that pose greater risks to children everyday than technology, yet we do not ban them outright, we educate and train to reduce those risks.
Take walking to school for example. According to traffic safety research, pedestrian accidents involving children do happen, sometimes with tragic consequences. (2) Yet, rather than preventing kids from walking to school entirely, we implement safety measures. We teach them how to look both ways before crossing the street, encourage the use of crosswalks and traffic lights, and in some cases, provide crossing guards to further enhance their safety. The risk is not eliminated, but it is mitigated through education and protective measures.
Swimming is another activity that carries inherent dangers. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death in children. (2) However, instead of forbidding children from going near water, we provide swimming lessons and flotation devices, enforce pool safety rules, and supervise them when necessary. Through education and skill-building, we empower young people to engage in this activity safely rather than keeping them away from it entirely.
Similarly, playgrounds come with a risk of injury. Children fall off monkey bars, scrape their knees, or even break bones. Yet, we do not remove playgrounds from our communities. Instead, we design them with safety in mind, incorporating softer landing surfaces and age-appropriate equipment. Parents and caregivers also teach children how to use playground structures properly, helping them develop the skills and awareness needed to play safely.
If we accept these risks because we recognize the immense benefits of physical activity, independence, and social engagement, why should we take a drastically different approach when it comes to social media? Why shouldn’t we apply the same logic to technology and social media?
Social media and the internet can provide undeniable benefits to young people, yet some advocate for blanket bans due to concerns over mental health, online exploitation, or exposure to harmful content. While it is true that risks exist, decades of research show that social media, when used responsibly and with proper guidance, can offers advantages to youth. (3)
For many teenagers, social media serves as a primary means of communication and connection. Adolescence is a time of self-discovery, and digital platforms allow young people to maintain friendships, engage with peers who share their interests, and seek out supportive communities. This is particularly valuable for marginalized youth, such as LGBTQ+ teens, who often find solace and validation in online spaces where they can connect with others who understand their experiences. Removing access to these platforms out of fear disregards the positive role they play in fostering social bonds and emotional well-being. (4)
Additionally, the internet and technology, when used appropriately, can be used as a tool for education and career development. (5)(6) Many young people use digital platforms to access learning materials, collaborate on school projects, and explore future career paths. (7) Whether it’s watching educational videos, joining online coding communities, or networking with professionals in their fields of interest, the internet opens doors that were previously unavailable to past generations. Blocking access based on the fear of harm ignores the broader reality that digital literacy and online engagement are now fundamental skills in both academic and professional environments.
Beyond education and connection, social media has become a powerful tool for advocacy and self-expression. Many young people today use their online presence to raise awareness about social issues, mobilize support for causes they care about, and share their creative talents with the world. (8) From climate change activism to mental health advocacy, teens are harnessing digital platforms to amplify their voices in ways that were never before possible. Dismissing social media as purely harmful fails to acknowledge its role in empowering young people to engage with the world in meaningful ways.
If society accepts some level of risk when it comes to medical treatments and everyday activities in order to achieve greater benefits, it stands to reason that we should take a similar approach to technology. Rather than imposing blanket bans based on fear, the focus should be on education, digital literacy, and responsible use, combined with parental participation, communication, and overwatch where needed (9)(10)(11)
The first step is recognizing that not all risks are equal. The evidence does not support the claim that social media is inherently harmful to the majority of youth. While some studies suggest potential negative impacts, particularly when use is excessive or unmonitored, other research highlights the many benefits of digital engagement. Instead of defaulting to worst-case scenarios, we must assess the full body of evidence and develop a nuanced understanding of the role technology plays in young people’s lives.
Next, we should focus on mitigating potential harms through education and parental involvement. Just as we teach children how to safely cross the street, swim, and play on playgrounds, we must equip them with the skills to navigate digital spaces responsibly. Open conversations about online risks, privacy settings, content moderation, and critical thinking are far more effective than outright prohibition. When young people understand how algorithms influence their feeds, (12) how to spot misinformation, and how to set personal boundaries online, they are far better prepared to use technology in a safe and beneficial way.
The notion that any risk is too great a threat is not only unrealistic but also counterproductive. Just as we do not ban life-saving medications, walking to school, swimming, or engaging on playgrounds due to potential dangers, we should not deprive young people of the many benefits of social media and the internet simply because risks exist. The goal should not be to eliminate all dangers but to educate, support, and empower youth to navigate the online world with confidence and resilience in an age and developmentally appropriate way!
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Emotions, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Tech Not No Tech
References:
1/ https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mmr-vaccine-homeschooling-b29d08d53cf26704968e8c00dfa712ba
9/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/a-transformational-approach-to-parenting-in-todays-onlife-world/
12/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/the-hidden-business-of-social-media-how-ads-target-teens-2/
