Australia is set to examine the effects of its upcoming social media ban on families through a comprehensive national study led by researchers in Perth. The initiative, spearheaded by Professor Kathryn Modecki, head of the developmental science of mental health team at The Kids Research Institute Australia and a professor at the University of Western Australia, aims to understand how the ban, scheduled to begin on December 10, 2023, will impact parenting for children aged nine to 15.
The study will commence next week, with parents randomly selected to participate receiving text invitations from The Kids Research Institute. They will complete a 15-minute online survey prior to the ban and a follow-up survey approximately six months later. “We’re focused on the family environment, including family conflict and the experiences of both parents and children during the ban,” said Professor Modecki.
The initiative has garnered significant attention, not only within Australia but also globally, as the nation navigates this contentious issue. To enhance the study’s effectiveness, The Kids Research Institute has partnered with the non-profit research organization NORC at the University of Chicago and Edith Cowan University. This collaboration aims to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the diverse experiences of individuals across various demographic backgrounds, including those in rural and remote areas.
“We need the very best data to inform these massive policy decisions that are happening at scale,” Professor Modecki emphasized. Her extensive background in this research area spans over 15 years, focusing on enhancing digital literacy among parents and improving communication to safeguard young people online.
The study resonates with parents like Kate and Tick Everett, who founded the non-profit organization Dolly’s Dream after the tragic loss of their daughter, Dolly, in 2018. “We don’t want any other parents to go through what we’ve gone through,” Mr. Everett stated. In 2023, they collaborated with The Kids Research Institute to launch the Beacon app, which provides parents with current, evidence-based guidance on digital literacy and online safety.
As the social media ban approaches, the Everetts believe the Beacon app will serve as a valuable resource for parents seeking reliable information. “We think it is definitely a step in the right direction to protect our kids from the harms that can be online,” Mr. Everett added. His wife, Ms. Everett, highlighted the app’s role in facilitating discussions about online safety and data privacy at home.
Their advice to parents is clear: “Don’t think that you’re in this alone,” Ms. Everett said, noting that Dolly’s Dream offers a 24-hour helpline and extensive resources for families, particularly those in rural and regional areas. She emphasized that helping parents navigate digital literacy and safety has provided meaning to their loss and supports their healing journey.
The Everetts encourage parents to foster trust and communication with their children. “Get that trust with your children. We all make mistakes, whether we’re six years old, or 16 or 60 years old, but just be their friend so that they’re comfortable to come to you and you’re comfortable to go to them,” Mr. Everett remarked. “Trust and communication. Communication is key.”
For more information, parents and carers can visit the Modern Life Study: Digital Parenting and Beacon online. Families selected for the study will receive a text from 0480 026 313. For immediate support, individuals can contact helplines such as Lifeline at 13 11 14, Beyond Blue at 1300 224 636, or Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.
