Following France’s announcement of plans to ban social media for children under 15 after a tragic incident, the question arises whether Tajikistan should adopt similar measures.  In France, the ban was proposed after a 14-year-old student attacked a teacher, reportedly influenced by social media, sparking a national debate on the impact of digital platforms on youth behavior.  President Emmanuel Macron linked rising aggression among teenagers to social media usage.  Similarly, the Netherlands has suggested banning children and teens under 15 from using platforms like TikTok and Instagram, recommending restrictions on screen time and forbidding screens in children’s bedrooms.  Other European countries are also considering similar measures.

In Tajikistan, many parents express concern about the influence of social media on children and teens, blaming it for aggressive behavior.  "In Tajikistan, such a ban would be beneficial, but with our irresponsible parents, it’s challenging.  Children use foul language that can only come from home," shared a concerned mother, Nigora Qasimova, on Asia-Plus.

The impact of social media on Tajik youth

Psychologist and digital safety expert Firouza Mirzoyeva offers insight into whether such a ban could help in Tajikistan.  According to her, today’s teenagers are “digital natives,” having grown up in the Internet era.  “For them, the digital world is as real as the physical one,” she says, adding that social media is deeply integrated into their lives.

Mirzoyeva agrees with the logic behind the social media ban, noting that teenagers' still-developing minds might not fully cope with negative online content, such as aggression, inappropriate language, and harmful propaganda.  Social media platforms can also expose youth to cyberbullying, which is particularly prevalent among teenagers.  “The lack of moderation on many platforms means that teenagers can encounter toxic influences,” she explains.

Digital hygiene over bans

However, Mirzoyeva suggests that outright bans may not be effective in the long run.  “Children, especially teens, can easily bypass restrictions and find ways to access social media,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of "digital hygiene" rather than imposing bans.  She believes parents should teach their children healthy digital habits from an early age.  "Parents should lead by example and instill norms for responsible online behavior," she adds.

Mirzoyeva also highlights the difference between younger children and teenagers.  "Children aged 7-10 should not be on social media at all, as they lack the critical thinking needed to process information online.  Parents must closely monitor their children's online activities," she advises.  For teens, she suggests limiting access to certain content while explaining the rationale behind the restrictions.

The role of social media in violence among youth

When asked about the role of social media in the rise of violence among Tajik youth, Mirzoyeva admitted that she hasn’t seen any formal research or statistics on the issue.  Nevertheless, she acknowledges that the growing influence of digital platforms could contribute to changing behaviors in young people.