Australia introduced a law in December 2025 prohibiting those under age 16 from using major social media platforms, aiming to reduce potential negative effects on children’s mental health and social development. However, Harvard University Professor Cass Sunstein said in a recent interview that early results show nearly three-quarters of Australian teenagers aged 14 to 15 are not complying with the ban.
The topic is significant as policymakers worldwide consider similar measures to protect young people from online harms. The research suggests that legal restrictions alone may not be enough if there is little incentive for compliance and strong social pressure to remain connected online.
Sunstein said, “One reason why it’s not working, certainly not as hoped, is that there’s no strong incentive for young teenagers to comply.” He added that violators do not face punishment and those who comply risk being excluded socially: “Another reason they don’t comply is that there’s potential exclusion from a group because most people are not complying.”
He noted the influence of group dynamics and fear of missing out (FOMO), saying, “We find that among many college students in the U.S., a lot don’t like the existence of TikTok in their community… But so long as they exist, they’re going to use them.” Sunstein explained how teens who avoid social media can be labeled unpopular: “Our data shows that the kids who stay off social media are seen as part of the unpopular kids. And for Australia, that’s a very serious problem.”
To improve compliance rates, Sunstein suggested several reforms including public education campaigns promoting offline activities or offering incentives such as free concert tickets. He also proposed policy adjustments like time limits instead of outright bans: “About two-thirds said they want time limits on their use rather than prohibitions. That would have some disadvantages as well as advantages, but it’s at least worth considering.”
Looking ahead, Sunstein believes change is possible through coordinated efforts involving parents, schools, and even cool peer influencers: “If Australia wanted to change the numbers… It could try to tackle the collective action problem directly by saying ‘Let’s stay off together,’ or something like that.” The findings may offer guidance for other countries debating how best to address youth use of social media.
