TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat are part of everyday life for most teenagers. Yet, many young users are advocating for age restrictions or even bans, as a recent survey by Techniker Krankenkasse shows.
Majority Open to Age Restrictions
Almost every second teenager in Germany considers an age limit for social networks to be sensible. This is according to a survey by Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) among 12- to 17-year-olds. Forty-seven percent of participants support a social media ban up to a certain age, with an average of 14 years cited as the appropriate limit.
An additional eight percent would generally ban social networks for children and teenagers. Overall, a majority is at least open to restrictions. Notably, despite all the criticism, 80 percent of teenagers view social media as rather positive for their own lives.
Ads and Fake News Cause Frustration
The survey also reveals the issues that concern teenagers on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat. Advertising tops the list: 57 percent find it annoying. This is followed by misinformation, which 52 percent find burdensome.
Thirty-six percent of respondents say they spend too much time on social networks. Thirty-five percent report bullying or offensive comments. Inappropriate content also plays a role: Nearly one-third of teenagers encounter images or videos with violence or other disturbing depictions.
Also of interest: Austria prepares social media ban for teenagers
Social Media Causes Bad Moods
The link between usage duration and well-being is particularly clear. Among teenagers who spend at least four hours daily on social media, 49 percent frequently or consistently report a bad mood. For those using it only one to two hours daily, this figure is 20 percent.
Increased usage also leads to more frequent feelings of insecurity, irritability, or exhaustion. This is accompanied by sleep problems, headaches, tension, or irritated eyes. To better recognize risks, many teenagers are seeking more support.
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