A recent survey reveals that an overwhelming 84% of Indonesian parents support a government proposal to set a minimum age for children's access to social media platforms. This initiative aims to safeguard young users against potential online risks. The survey also highlights TikTok as the "most dangerous" platform, with 58% of parents expressing concerns over its impact on children. Furthermore, 81% of parents believe that the ideal age for children to begin using social media is between 15 and 17 years old.
The survey underscores the widespread apprehension among parents about their children's online safety. Exposure to age-inappropriate content remains the top concern for 81% of parents. Additionally, 74% worry about addiction or excessive screen time, while 70% fear negative mental health impacts. Concerns about the spread of misinformation and cyber bullying were noted by 62% and 54% of parents, respectively.
Interestingly, mothers show more robust support for the proposed regulation, with 88% in favor compared to 81% of fathers. Only half of the surveyed parents believe that the upcoming legislation will effectively control their children's online presence. A significant portion, 50%, agrees that a maximum of two hours a day is an ideal duration for social media usage.
The survey also delves into parents' views on suitable ages for social media access. While the majority prefer the 15 to 17 age group, 12% consider it acceptable for children aged 12 to 14 to start using these platforms. The concern extends to the amount of time children spend online, with 43% of parents suggesting an optimal duration of three to five hours daily. However, only a very small percentage find it acceptable for children to exceed five hours on social media.
Parents' perceptions of platform safety vary, with many viewing YouTube and Instagram as safer options compared to TikTok. Some respondents maintain a neutral stance regarding these platforms' potential dangers. This sentiment reflects a broader debate about the role of social media in children's lives and the need for effective regulation.
“The emphasis for the government regulation is child protection, how they are protected from physical, mental or moral perils,”
This statement resonates with many parents who worry about their children freely accessing social media without adequate safeguards.
“They now can freely open social media so that is concerning to us as parents,"
This remark encapsulates the anxiety shared by many parents in today's digital age.
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