Our Proposals
We urge the federal government to legislate the following measures to improve the social media for youth:
1. Algorithm Transparency and Controls:
Drawing inspiration from the E.U.’s proposed Digital Services Act, we advocate for algorithm transparency and controls by mandating social media companies:
- Disclose key parameters of their algorithms, including how they prioritize or recommend content.
- Empower users by offering the ability to adjust algorithmic preferences.
2. Restrict Use of Personal Data in Algorithmic Recommendations for Individuals Under 16
We advocate social media platforms be prohibited from using an individual's personal data in algorithmic recommendations unless confirmed (through stringent age verification) to be 16 years of age or older.
3. Prevent Social Media Access for Children Under Age 13
Inspired by the Protecting Kids on Social Media Act (a proposed U.S. bill), we urge legislation of the following measures to address the proven risks to children:
- Requiring social media platforms to implement robust age verification mechanisms to accurately identify children under 13.
- Limit access to social media platforms for children under 13.
4. Limit Social Media Features that Exploit Human Psychology
Inspired by the Social Media Addiction Reduction Technology (SMART) Act (a proposed U.S. bill), we advocate for the restriction of the following social media features that increase dependence and addiction:
- Infinite Scroll or Auto Refill: Social media platforms should be restricted from automatically loading additional posts when users reach the end of their feed without explicit user action.
- Elimination of Natural Stopping Points: Platforms must not load more content than what most users typically scroll through in 3 minutes without user-initiated action.
- Badges and Awards for Engagement: Platforms should be restricted from awarding badges or incentives for platform usage (unless they significantly enhance the user experience by providing new or additional services, content, or features rather than promoting engagement).
5. Incorporate Supportive Prompts for Sensitive Content
Social media platforms should provide supportive prompts or links to resources when users engage with sensitive content. Measures could include:
- Displaying access to mental health resources or crisis lines when users search or engage with content related to self-harm, eating disorders, or mental health crises.
- Providing occasional health/wellbeing suggestions to buffer against or offer positive alternatives when users encounter high volumes of negative or distressing content.
6. Boost Positive and Socially Enriching Content
Social media algorithms should elevate more positive and socially enriching content alongside controversial or negative content, without limiting critical political or public discourse. This aims to promote a broader, more balanced content range while preserving diverse perspectives and meaningful debate. Social media companies could:
- Allow user feedback to help identify content that holds educational or social value for promotion.
7. A Bi-Annual Governmental Report on the Mental Health Impacts of Social Media
We advocate the federal government commission a report no less than every two years examining the mental health affects of social media, including an in-depth audit of the existing practices of social media companies.
Experts, advocacy groups, academics, and industry representatives must be an integral part of the report to inform updated policy recommendations in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
