Following the decision taken by the governments of the UK, USA, France, South Korea, Russia, Italy and China to restrict internet gaming time and social media use of young people under the age of 16. Australia also took action. In the country, While it is certain that the bill that will ban those under the age of 16 from accessing social media will pass through the parliament with the support of both the government and the opposition, all eyes are on Turkey. According to the latest research, it is reported that there are a total of 75 million social media users in Turkey, and it is also underlined that Turkish citizens spend more than 3 hours a day on social media platforms. uWhile others point out that the number and duration of users is too high, It is pointed out that there should be social media restrictions for children under the age of 16 in Turkey.
RESTRICTION UNDER THE AGE OF 13
It is among the information reflected behind the scenes that the regulation that will ban children under the age of 13 from accessing social media is in the final stages. The study carried out by the Information Technologies and Communication Authority (BTK) aims to ensure the digital safety of children. Experts agree that it is already too late for restrictions to protect children.
IT PRESENTS A SERIOUS RISK
Stating that the fact that the majority of the population in Turkey is social media users is a picture formed by the combination of various social, technological and cultural dynamics, Information Technology Specialist Osman Demircan said: “The use of social media by primary school children carries many risks and problems. Especially in social media around the world.” “While age limits are imposed on media use, the widespread use of media among primary school children in Turkey poses serious risks,” he said.
“WE SPEND 3 HOURS”
Social Media Expert Ufuk Karakullukçu said that the rate of young population in Turkey is quite high and the interest in digital platforms is increasing. “According to 2023 data, people in Turkey use the internet for an average of 6.7 hours a day. Half of this time is spent on social media. Unfortunately, our social media usage time is above the world average. Excessive and unbalanced use of social media causes serious harm, especially to young people. It is necessary to protect children and supervise platforms with certain legal regulations. “Severe sanctions should be imposed on social media companies that do not comply with legal processes,” he said.
“WE ARE ADDICTIVE”
Prof. Dr. Nevzat Tarhan (Psychiatrist)
“As a society, we have become a hyperactive community. We also love change and innovation. This situation causes the very risky use of social media in Turkey. Turkey is perhaps the country with the highest behavioral addiction rate in the world. The decision to be presented to the parliament in Australia will be taken into account by Turkey more. he needs. We see the risks of social media habits in society. If we have such a law, the hands of families and educators will be strengthened and child psychiatric cases will decrease. Therefore, Türkiye should take quick reflexes on this issue..
“REASON FOR DEPRESSION”
Prof. Dr. Hakan Türkçapar (Psychiatry Specialist)
“Social media, which provides economic value, attracts the attention of young people. However, sosyal media creates addiction by affecting brain chemistry. This situation causes various mental health problems such as loneliness, depression and anxiety disorders. There are 75 million social media users in a country with a population of 87 million. From primary school children to individuals over retirement age, almost everyone now has a social media account. This habit reveals the existence of addiction at both individual and social levels. Parents need to monitor what content their children follow.
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