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Social Media & Mental Health
Welcome to this week’s roundup of the latest tech news.
From YouTube’s controversial “pause ads,” to LinkedIn giving users the option to opt-out of AI data training, and the FTC’s scathing report on social media giants’ privacy practices. Let’s dive in and see how these stories are affecting our digital landscape.
California Schools to Implement Phone-free Policies
Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law this week that will require California schools to limit student cell phone use during school hours to combat mental health issues.
Rather than dictate specific policies, the legislation directs school districts across California to draft and implement their own policies to limit students’ use of cell phones during the school day.
The news provides a major contribution to the ongoing national conversation about safeguarding children’s mental health and educational performance in the digital age.
California schools must restrict student cell phone use on campus under law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom | CBS Los Angeles
YouTube Introduces ‘Pause Ads’
YouTube has rolled out “pause ads” — static ads appearing when videos are paused — to boost revenue.
While viewers may find these ads intrusive, experts believe they capitalize on idle attention.
As platforms increasingly rely on ads, many users may adapt, with options for ad-free subscriptions available.
YouTube rolling out ads that appear when videos are paused | USA Today
AI Training on Our Social Media Data
Social media platforms increasingly use user-generated content to train AI models, often without explicit consent.
LinkedIn now allows users to opt out, while X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, Reddit, and Meta have varying policies.
Users should be aware of these practices and adjust their privacy settings accordingly.
Social media platforms are using what you create for artificial intelligence. Here’s how to opt out | CNN
YouTube Unveils Communities
Last week YouTube introduced “Communities,” a dedicated space for creators and subscribers to interact more deeply.
This feature allows fans to share content and connect directly, while moving beyond comments. “Communities” is being compared by some to Discord servers.
Currently in testing with a small group of creators, it aims to expand to others by early 2025.
YouTube launches Communities, a Discord-like space for creators and fans to interact with each other | Tech Crunch
FTC Says Big Tech Fails to Protect User Privacy and Safety
The FTC criticized major social media platforms like YouTube, Amazon, and Facebook for inadequate user privacy protections and failing to safeguard children.
A new report highlights widespread data collection practices and calls for stronger regulations.
The agency emphasizes the need for comprehensive federal privacy legislation to protect users, especially teens.
FTC report assails social network’s privacy, safety practices | The Washington Post
Whipped Into a Frenzy
A dangerous trend is resurfacing on TikTok as young people increasingly use nitrous oxide, or “whippets,” for recreational highs.
While often bought legally and easily online or at vape shops, nitrous oxide is not legal to use to get a high.
Concerns about safety and potential regulation are growing, as alarming abuse rates in the U.S. mirror those seen in the U.K. where nitrous oxide abuse is second only to cannabis.
What is nitrous oxide? TikTok trend puts spotlight on how kids are abusing laughing gas. | CBS News
Also, learn other ways kids find drugs on social media
Other Headlines
- ‘It’s not a solution for teen girls like me’: Instagram’s new under-18 rules met with skepticism | The Guardian
- TikTok comes for Google’s ad business as it starts letting advertisers target its search results page | Tech Crunch
- Newsom Signs Bill That Adds Protections for Children on Social Media | The New York Times
Did we miss anything?
Let us know in the comments below.
Author Jackie Baucom
Jackie is a Gabb staff writer. She is the mother of four children and is passionate about keeping kids safe, happy, loved, and thriving. She has a degree in Mass Communication from the University of Utah.
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