France Considers Smartphone Ban by Age Group
Experts Propose Strict Guidelines to Government
While it is common to see infants and toddlers skillfully handling their parents' smartphones anywhere in the world, the French government is considering a ban on video viewing for children under 3 years old and a prohibition on smartphone possession until the age of 13. This is due to the negative effects on various aspects such as the vision and concentration of infants and young children.
On the 1st (local time), media outlets including Yonhap News cited a report from The Guardian stating, "Ten experts including neurologists and psychiatrists who conducted research on children's smartphone use for the French ?lys?e Palace recently submitted a report calling for strict restrictions on children's video viewing and smartphone use." The report emphasized a complete ban on video viewing, including TV, for infants under 3 years old, and that children aged 3 to 6 should only watch educational videos accompanied by an adult. Furthermore, it recommended smartphone use starting from age 11 and internet access via smartphones from age 13.
It stressed that social media use should be allowed from age 15 but limited to 'ethical social media.' Experts argued that TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat are excluded from ethical social media. The report also recommended minimizing the use of smartphones and TVs in maternity wards to help babies form bonds with their parents, and banning computers and TVs in daycare centers. In particular, the report pointed out that "parents constantly checking their own phones is an act that interferes with their ability to converse with, eat with, and focus on playing with their children." It added, "Adults looking at smartphones while feeding young children or keeping the TV on continuously is emotionally harmful."
Experts emphasized the need to "protect children from strategies that keep them glued to (IT device) screens for profit." Psychiatrist Amin Benyamina, who participated in drafting the report, pointed out that "screens negatively affect children's vision, metabolism, intelligence, concentration, and cognitive abilities." However, The Guardian added that it is uncertain what measures the French government will take after receiving this report. President Emmanuel Macron mentioned in January that there "may be bans or restrictions" on children's video viewing and smartphone use.
Not only in France but also in the UK, concerns have been raised about excessive smartphone use by children, and authorities are reportedly considering a ban on sales to those under 16. Recently, the UK Daily Telegraph reported, citing sources, that the cabinet is reviewing a plan to ban smartphone sales to those under 16.
A survey conducted by the civic group Parentkind in March of 2,500 parents found that 58% supported the 'ban on smartphones for under 16s.' However, the BBC pointed out that since most mobile phones used by minors in the UK are likely provided by their parents, the smartphone sales ban may have limited effectiveness.
Ofcom, the UK communications and media regulator, announced that 24% of children aged 5 to 7 own smartphones, and 76% use tablet PCs. Among this age group, 65% access online for voice and video calls, and 50% watch live streaming videos. The BBC reported, "Many UK parents buy phones for their children to know their location and keep in touch, but it is difficult to prevent them from using social media in an environment where their peers do." The media added that this is increasing the dilemma for parents regarding their children's smartphone use.
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