This report explores the use of technology among children and young people. It looks at the wider impact of different types of screen use on the mental health of children and young people including issues around screen time, the impact of negative content, and the potential for bullying and addiction. It also explores how vulnerable groups such as those with mental health problems and very young children may be affected and discusses issues around safeguarding.
The report calls on the online regulator for online safety to require social-media companies to share date on how children and young people are using social media and not just how much time they spend online.
Dr Richard Graham, Clinical Lead, Good Thinking: London’s Digital Mental Well-being Service, said: “At Good Thinking we are committed to improving the lives of all Londoners, and when we spoke to young people about mental health, they told us about the stresses of social media and how it could have an impact on them.
“We were honoured to have contributed to this report from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, as it’s one of the most balanced reviews of technology use and the mental health of children and young people, but also how we should support those with areas that worry them in their digital lives.
“Technology plays a vital role in every part of our lives, whether we are aware or not, what you do online may affect our physical and mental health in both positive and negative ways, and we need to be aware of that.”
Report published by the Royal College of Psychiatrists
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