Schoenebeck: Social media can be a scary place for kids. Here’s how to protect yours.

As the conflict in Israel and Gaza unfolded throughout the weekend, violent videos surfaced on social media, especially TikTok. Children, vulnerable to these graphic images, are wading through news feeds that are filled with misinformation and bloodshed. 

For the Atlantic, experts weigh in on what parents need to do to protect their children. University of Michigan School of Information associate professor Sarita Schoenebeck, an expert on social media and parenting, says parents should assess whether children are capable of self-regulating their social media use before handing them a smartphone. 

“When you say, ‘Oh, time to turn the TV off!’ or whatever, are they able to self-regulate and do that without having a fit?” she asks. 

RELATED

Read “Should You Delete Your Kid's TikTok This Week?” on the Atlantic. 

Learn more about Sarita Schoenebeck and her research by visiting her UMSI faculty profile.