Contributor: If social platforms are harmful, don't just ban kids. Regulate the harms - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Jessica L. Schleider

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Social media companies are facing intense scrutiny in court as they defend against claims that their platforms harm young people's mental health. While lawmakers consider banning or severely restricting adolescents' access to these sites, critics argue that such measures are too simplistic and fail to address the deeper issues at hand. Instead of focusing on outright bans, experts like adolescent psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge suggest a more nuanced approach is needed—one that regulates how platforms operate rather than eliminating their use entirely. The lawsuits highlight concerns about whether social media companies intentionally designed systems that exploit young people's psychological vulnerabilities to keep them engaged. While these cases question the platforms' practices, they also bring attention to the broader debate over who should be held responsible for online harm and how to address it effectively. Proponents of bans argue that such measures are politically appealing because they offer a clear solution without the complexity of regulating trillion-dollar corporations. However, banning social media altogether is not the answer. For many adolescents, especially those from marginalized or isolated communities, these platforms serve as critical support networks. They allow for identity exploration and access to mental health resources, which can be life-changing for vulnerable youth. Studies show that digital tools provided through these platforms can reduce stress and improve well-being, particularly when offered anonymously or without parental involvement. The real issue lies in how social media companies design their systems. If the problem is rooted in platform features that prioritize engagement over safety, simply restricting access does little to solve the underlying issues. Instead of abandoning the task of making online spaces safer, policymakers should focus on creating regulations that hold tech companies accountable for their designs and ensure they support user well-being. This debate matters because it reflects a broader societal tension between innovation and responsibility in technology. As courts and lawmakers grapple with these questions, the stakes are high: balancing the potential benefits of social media with its risks to mental health. A thoughtful approach that combines regulation with innovation could help create safer online environments without erasing the positive roles these platforms play for millions of young people.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/25/2026