Gutfeld: Our Country Is Facing A Deadly Crisis

In recent years, there has been growing concern about the impact of social media on the mental well-being of young people. Some argue that platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat are designed to attract and addict minors, leading to a range of negative effects. Seattle Public Schools even filed a lawsuit claiming that these media companies were exploiting developing minds for profit. And most recently, Bucks County, Pennsylvania joined the fight, accusing these platforms of encouraging addiction and causing harm to young users.

But is TikTok really to blame for kids going insane? And should big tech be held accountable for treating our kids like laboratory mice?

The Dangers of Social Media Addiction

Dr. Drew, a renowned doctor and media personality, points out the obvious manifestations of social media addiction in younger females. These include suppression, overall depression, and substance abuse. He argues that the situation has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as schools sent kids home with electronic devices, exposing them to even more screen time and potential harm.

Dr. Drew draws parallels between social media addiction and substance addiction, suggesting that we may one day view social media in the same light as tobacco. While it may be difficult to completely ban kids from using social media, he emphasizes the need for parents to pay attention to what their kids are doing online.

The Influence of Parents and Role Models

One interesting aspect of the social media phenomenon is the role parents play in shaping their kids' behavior online. As one commentator points out, if kids see their parents being jerks online, they may think it's acceptable to follow suit. This brings up the question of whether parents themselves need to be mindful of their own behavior and set a positive example for their children.

The commentator also touches on the issue of status obsession among children. With platforms like Instagram, kids now have a constant window into the lives of their peers, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and FOMO (fear of missing out). Ignorance, it seems, truly was bliss in the pre-social media era.

The Comparison to Smoking

To better understand the potential dangers of social media, it may be helpful to draw a parallel with smoking. Back when the harms of smoking became widely known, it was revealed that cigarette companies had manipulated nicotine levels to make their products more addictive. They targeted vulnerable populations and exploited their addiction for profit.

In a similar vein, some argue that social media platforms are intentionally designed to hook users and keep them engaged. The comparison to smoking becomes even more apt when considering the addictive nature of these platforms and their impact on mental well-being.

The Way Forward

So, how do we address the harmful effects of social media addiction? While there are no easy answers, one thing is clear: human interaction and real-life experiences are crucial for healthy development. Technology should enhance our lives, not consume them.

Parents need to be more involved in their children's online activities, setting boundaries and fostering open conversations about the potential risks and benefits of social media. Schools should also play a role in educating students about responsible internet usage and digital citizenship.

But ultimately, the responsibility lies with big tech companies. They need to prioritize the well-being of their users over profits by implementing stricter regulations and safeguards to ensure that their platforms do not become breeding grounds for addiction and harm.

In conclusion, while TikTok may not be solely to blame for kids going insane, it does play a role in the larger issue of social media addiction and its detrimental effects on young people. It's time for society to hold big tech accountable and demand a more ethical approach to technology and its impact on our children's well-being.