Should the U.S. Ban Social Media for Kids Under 16? 
A Child Psychologist Weighs In

August 11, 2026

As concerns about youth mental health continue to grow, lawmakers around the world are taking a closer look at children’s access to social media.

With Australia becoming the first country to ban social media for those under 16 in 2025, other countries, including France, are looking to follow suit. Although the U.S. has yet to enforce a nationwide restriction, the question remains: Should the U.S. ban social media for people under 16?

According to Jessica Kendorski, PhD, NCSP, BCBA-D, a licensed child psychologist and professor at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), the answer isn’t a simple yes or no.

“I believe the United States should focus on limiting social media use rather than implementing a complete ban,” she said. “While limiting social media usage can protect youth mental health and encourage real-world social skills, a total ban prevents the ability to learn digital literacy and online resilience under parental guidance.”

Kendorski goes on to say banning social media could be especially difficult for some young pre-teens who rely on online communities for support and connection. “A child with autism or a child who is a part of the LGBTQ+IA community may lose access to valuable peer support and trusted health resources.”

While Kendorski sees potential downsides to a complete ban, she also recognizes the benefits. “A ban could improve students’ focus in school and help them get better sleep by removing a significant distraction and encouraging them to spend their time on other activities," she said. “It could also shield children from harmful content, and improve self-confidence because they are not comparing their lives to what they see posted online.”

Rather than focusing on whether social media should be banned, Kendorski encourages parents to help their kids develop healthy digital habits. One recommendation is monitoring their algorithms. “By checking their algorithm, parents can better understand what content their child is seeing and whether it’s having a negative impact, "she said.

Finally, she recommends teaching your kids how to be responsible online. “Encourage your children to be kind online and help them develop critical-thinking skills, so they understand not everything they see online is real. And, remind them to never share personal information with strangers.”

Above all, Kendorski encourages families to help their kids be intentional about how they spend their time.

“Ask your kids whether there’s something else they could be doing instead of scrolling on social media,” she says. “Encourage them to read a book, spend time with friends, or go outside to play fetch with the dog. Helping children find balance is one of the best ways to support their overall well-being.”

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