Warning labels on social media? Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety
Vivek Murthy
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Monday (June 17) called for warning labels to be placed on social media apps to alert users, especially youths, of the dangers associated with the use of such applications.
'Surgeon General's warning label'
In an opinion piece he penned for the New York Times, Murthy pointed out that whilea warning label alone might not alleviate all the issues aroundsocialmedia, it could at least increase awarenessand perhaps change behaviour — much like the impact warning labels have had on tobacco.
"It is time to require a surgeon general's warning label on social media platforms, stating that social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents," wrote Murthy.
Such a step would not be carried out on Murthy's advice alone and would need the US Congress legislation.
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Social media and the threats children face online
The recent call by Murthy for a warning label is part of broader concerns around growing mental health problems among youngsters stemming from the use of social media, reports Reuters.
Although social media companies such as TikTok, Snap, and Meta Platforms (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram) have yet to comment on Murthy's proposal, they have already got into hot water with policymakers over online child safety.
Previously, in January, US Senatorsgrilled the CEOsof the three companies about online child safety. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham had even accused them of having "blood on your hands," for failing to protect young users from sexual predators.
The concerns have also led to some US states regulating social media use by minors. New York recently passed legislation restricting certain algorithmic content for those under 18 without parental consent. In Florida, a bill passed in March requires children aged 14 and 15 to receive parental consent for the use of social media; children under 14 are banned from using such apps.
Critics of social media include youth advocates and lawmakers, who say it is breeding shortened attention spans, a negative body imageand heightened susceptibility to online bullying and predators.
(With inputs from agencies)
