Market Data
Indonesian Parents Overwhelmingly Support Social Media Age Restrictions
In a groundbreaking survey published on February 11, 2023, 84 per cent of Indonesian parents have expressed their support for a government proposal to set a minimum age for social media access. This initiative, aimed at protecting children from the potential harms of the digital world, has garnered considerable approval from the adult population, particularly among mothers, with 88 per cent in favor compared to 81 per cent of fathers. The survey, conducted by global public opinion and data company YouGov, involved 892 adults aged 18 and above, all of whom have at least one child under the age of 18. The online survey highlights a growing awareness among parents about the risks associated with early exposure to social media.
The Biggest Concern: Age-Inappropriate Content
The survey’s findings reveal that the primary concern among parents is the exposure of their children to age-inappropriate content, with 81 per cent of respondents citing this as their biggest worry. This concern is followed closely by addiction or excessive screen time (74 per cent), negative mental health impacts (70 per cent), and the spread of misinformation (62 per cent). Cyberbullying and harassment, while significant, are a lesser concern, with only 54 per cent of parents expressing worry about these issues. The depth of these concerns underscores the need for robust regulatory measures to safeguard young users from harmful online content.
Mothers Take the Lead in Support
Mothers are notably more supportive of the proposed age restrictions, with 88 per cent in favor, compared to 81 per cent of fathers. This gender difference suggests that mothers, who often take on primary caregiving roles, are more acutely aware of the potential dangers their children face online. The higher level of support among mothers reflects their deep-seated commitment to ensuring their children’s safety in the digital age. This finding also highlights the importance of involving mothers in policy discussions and decision-making processes related to child protection.
Perceived Effectiveness of the Legislation
While the majority of parents support the upcoming legislation, only half (50 per cent) believe it will be effective in controlling their children’s online presence. Seventeen per cent remain skeptical of the legislation’s effectiveness, while 33 per cent are neutral. This mixed sentiment indicates that while parents see the value in setting age limits, they are also aware of the challenges in enforcing such regulations. The skepticism may stem from concerns about the practical implementation of the law and the effectiveness of existing measures to monitor and regulate social media usage among children.
Platform Perceptions: TikTok and X Raise Concerns
TikTok, the popular short-form video platform, is viewed as the most dangerous social media platform for children, with 58 per cent of parents expressing concerns. X (formerly Twitter) closely follows, with 51 per cent of respondents viewing it as a potential risk. In contrast, YouTube and Instagram are seen as relatively safer platforms, though many parents maintain a neutral stance regarding their potential dangers. This perception reflects the varying degrees of trust and concern parents have toward different social media platforms, with some viewed as more harmful than others.
Moving Forward: Balancing Protection and Access
The Indonesian government’s move to set minimum age limits for social media access is a significant step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of children in the digital age. However, the success of this initiative will depend on a multifaceted approach that includes robust enforcement, parental education, and ongoing dialogue with stakeholders. The YouGov survey’s findings highlight the need for a balanced approach that addresses the legitimate concerns of parents while also ensuring that children have access to the educational and social benefits of the digital world. As the debate continues, the voices of parents, particularly mothers, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of digital child protection policies in Indonesia.
