Gen-Z Vows to Keep Their Kids Off Social Media, Citing Regret Over Screen Time

Survey Finds Majority of Young Adults Want Stronger Regulations for Online Safety

In a striking shift of perspective, Generation Z—those who grew up entirely in the digital age—are now leading a call to restrict social media use for future generations. A recent survey has revealed that four out of five Gen Z individuals (aged 16 to 24) vow to keep their own children away from social media for as long as possible, citing deep regrets over their excessive screen time during childhood.

This sentiment underscores growing concerns over the negative effects of social media on mental health, privacy, and safety. The findings suggest that the first generation to be raised with the internet at their fingertips is now experiencing digital fatigue and a desire to shield the next generation from similar pitfalls.

Gen Z's Regret Over Social Media Use

According to the study, conducted by More in Common in collaboration with The New Britain Project, many young adults feel that social media has had an overwhelmingly negative impact on their lives:

• 50% of Gen Z respondents regret the amount of time they spent on their devices during childhood.
• 33% wish they had waited longer before using social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
• 75% believe the government should introduce stronger regulations to protect children from social media’s harmful effects.
• Two-thirds of respondents say social media has become less safe over the past five years.

Luke Tryl, Director at More in Common, highlighted the growing frustration among young Britons:

"Many Gen Z Britons regret the time they spent on their devices. There is now widespread demand for the government to take action and ensure better protection for children against the harms of social media."

Social Media Named as the Biggest Threat to Mental Health

The study also identified social media as the most harmful influence on teenagers' mental well-being. Many participants believe platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) fuel issues such as:

• Increased anxiety and depression
• Body image issues and unrealistic beauty standards
• Exposure to cyberbullying and harmful content
• Diminished attention spans and excessive screen addiction

Notably, female respondents were more critical of social media than their male counterparts, suggesting that young women may be more vulnerable to social comparison, online harassment, and body image pressures.

Government Debate on Social Media Regulation

The release of this research coincides with an upcoming debate in the UK Parliament regarding stricter regulations for smartphone and social media use among children. Labour MP Josh MacAlister is spearheading the Safer Phones Bill, which seeks to:

• Push for more research into the effects of social media on children
• Create new safety measures for young users
• Hold social media companies accountable for harmful content

Anna McShane, Director of The New Britain Project, emphasized the urgency of the issue:

"We regulate industries that pose risks to young people—why should social media be any different? If we fail to act now, we ignore the voices of the very generation that has experienced its worst effects."

Rising Concerns Over AI and Deepfake Technology

Another alarming trend highlighted in the study is the increasing exposure of teenagers to AI-generated deepfake content. A separate poll by Girlguiding UK found that:

• More than 25% of teenagers have encountered a sexualized deepfake of a celebrity, teacher, or friend.
• 58% of 13-year-olds are aware of deepfakes, with the number rising to 62% among older teenagers.

Deepfake technology, which uses artificial intelligence to manipulate real images and videos, poses serious ethical and legal concerns—especially regarding misinformation, online safety, and cyber exploitation.

Government's Response & Future Regulations

In response to these growing concerns, the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology reaffirmed its commitment to protecting young users. A spokesperson stated:

"By the summer, robust new protections for children will be in force through the Online Safety Act, ensuring they are shielded from harmful content and age-inappropriate experiences."

The government will formally respond to the Safer Phones Bill during its second reading in Parliament, with many expecting additional measures to curb social media’s negative impact on young users.

Final Thoughts: A New Era of Digital Parenting?

As Gen Z begins transitioning into parenthood, their cautious approach toward social media signals a significant cultural shift. Unlike previous generations that embraced technology with open arms, today’s young adults are more aware of its dangers and potential long-term consequences.

Whether these attitudes will translate into stricter household digital rules or widespread government regulations remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—the way we approach social media and online safety is evolving.

Conclusion: A Shift in Social Media Perception

This research highlights a growing skepticism toward social media among the very generation that grew up with it. Gen Z’s overwhelming support for stricter regulations and digital safety measures could mark the beginning of a new era of responsible tech usage and online parenting.

As governments, policymakers, and parents navigate this evolving landscape, the call for action is louder than ever. Will future generations see social media as a tool for connection or a risk to mental well-being? Only time will tell. ????????