Youthline warns social-media ban for under-16s could backfire

Mental health experts and youth support services are urging caution as the New Zealand Government considers banning social media for under-16s.

While concerns about the effects of platforms like TikTok and Instagram on young people’s wellbeing may be valid, groups like Youthline and Le Va say a blanket ban could do more harm than good.

Youthline chief execitive Shae Ronald ONZM, says rangatahi often mention social media as both a source of stress and a lifeline.

“Young people tell us social comparison is a major concern,” Ronald said.

“But social media also offers peer support, affirming communities, and access to mental health resources.”

Youthline’s 2023 State of the Generation report found nearly half of surveyed youth believed social media was one of the biggest issues their generation faced. But Ronald says the issues it amplifies, like racism, academic pressure, and climate anxiety, often go deeper.

A proposed ban like the one being introduced in Australia could push vulnerable youth to unsafe corners of the internet, she warns.

“A ban risks isolating young people who rely on online communities, especially LGBTQ+ youth, disabled youth, and those in unsafe home environments.”

Le Va, a Pacific mental health organisation, is also assessing the policy. The group’s latest insights highlight the value of culturally appropriate, digital wellbeing tools for Pacific youth.

Brian Martin, a father and grandparent, supports the idea of a ban.

“They spend most of their time on social media,” he said.

“The effect it has on them is often negative. It should be moderated.”

Martin believes government intervention would take pressure off parents.

“Most of us work. It’s impossible to monitor everything,” he said.

"If the ban comes from the Government, kids won’t blame us.”

Still, he said he worried about how the ban would be enforced and whether it would drive youth to more unsafe corners online.

“TikTok and others all have a dark side,” he said.

Rather than banning access, Youthline supports media literacy education, better safety tools, and embedded help-seeking resources.

Education Minister Erica Stanford says the Government is consulting widely and wants to balance safety with young people’s right to connect.

Youth advocates say any policy must centre youth voices, not just adult fears, if it aims to protect mental health.

TWN has launches its 2025 social media campaign exploring the proposed social media ban for under 16s.