There has been a great deal of discussion in the media recently about the Government’s proposal to introduce age verification on social media platforms. The idea that these platforms should be banned for individuals under 16 has bipartisan support and seeks to shift some responsibility onto tech companies for ensuring content only reaches those for whom it is appropriate. Personally, I welcome the proposal. There is far too much evidence that social media is not helping our young people to be happy and successful. One significant problem is that social media use promotes a phone addiction by offering hits of the neurotransmitter, dopamine, when we receive a like, an answer to a text or a comment on a post. These hits are not long lasting and so in order to maintain a positive mood based on dopamine, we need to seek them out again and again. By contrast, serotonin, a chemical generated when we expend effort on activities, is longer lasting, generating a sustained feeling of satisfaction and reward. Helping a friend work through a problem via a conversation, mastering a piece on a musical instrument, contributing positively to a sporting match or becoming proficient in conversation in a language that is not our first, are good examples of things that will drive the production of serotonin and its associated positive outcomes. 

As adults, we have a responsibility to ensure that our young people are undertaking activities that are in their best interests. I am always delighted when I speak to parents of Lowther Hall girls who are strongly engaged in managing the technology space with their girls. I encourage you to maintain your efforts and to stay strong in the space. For those who haven’t quite gained control of their daughter’s app use, I implore you to step in. Learn more in this area and engage in conversations within your family about the addictive and harmful properties of social media. Continue to model phone free time, where the device doesn’t sit on the table next to you during dinner or conversations. Our young people need our help to ensure they can be happy and healthy for the long term. I look forward to further discussion of this topic in the new year as the legislation is further progressed.

Ms Elisabeth Rhodes
Principal