As the Canadian government considers a ban on youth on social media the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA) encourages families and educators to continue the conversation around navigating digital spaces.
Executive Director Luciana Rosu-Sieza said she believes the policy is a great idea, however youth are resourceful and will learn ways to circumvent restrictions that are hard to enforce.
"I think open communication is the key to having these discussions and I think the goal is to create resilient digital consumers and I think that has to start at a younger age," said Rosu-Sieza.
She said a policy can help support educators and parents enforce the message that constant exposure to curated images, filtered content, and unrealistic beauty standards can contribute to unhealthy comparisons and heightened pressure to meet unattainable expectations.
"We know that the more time that youth spend on social media they do have a greater chance at developing clinical depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, certainly negative body image, concerns about that they're not measuring up," said Rosu-Sieza.
She said that's also why its important that policies consider promoting digital literacy, critical thinking, and healthy online engagement.
"We all have these touch points and opportunities to influence youth and I think that if you have that opportunity have these discussions, have the open communication. As parents, get on the social media, especially on the platforms that youth are using and understand what is happening," said Rosu-Sieza
Details of the Safe Social Media Act will be released Wednesday evening.
