Is Meta’s Decision to Allow 10-12 Year Olds in VR a Responsible Move?

Meta’s decision to allow 10-12 year olds to engage in chats and calls in VR is a controversial move, considering the negative impact that social media has had on younger audiences. Studies have shown that social media usage can have harmful effects on development, mental health, and overall well-being. With the growing evidence of these negative impacts, many experts believe that stricter age limits should be implemented to protect young users.

Several states have already taken steps to regulate social media platforms and protect young users. The “Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids” act in New York, for example, aims to prohibit social media platforms from providing an addictive feed to children under 18. Other states, such as Florida and Maryland, have also proposed laws to require parental consent for young users to create or maintain social media accounts.

Virtual reality (VR) experiences are even more immersive and consuming than traditional social media platforms. There are concerns that VR interactions could have similar negative impacts on young users, including issues such as negative comparisons and bullying. Meta’s implementation of parental oversight for younger users may not be enough to mitigate these risks, especially considering the potential dangers of VR exposure.

Lessons from Social Media

Meta’s decision to allow 10-12 year olds in VR may be driven by the need to attract younger users to its metaverse vision. However, it is important to consider the lessons learned from social media and the potential risks associated with exposing young users to immersive digital experiences. The reported incidents of sexual harassment and virtual rape in Meta’s VR environment highlight the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of young users.

Meta’s decision to allow 10-12 year olds in VR raises valid concerns about the potential risks and negative impacts on young users. While parental supervision and oversight are important, it may not be enough to protect children from the harmful effects of immersive digital experiences. It is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of young users and consider the lessons learned from social media regulation. Ultimately, Meta must carefully evaluate the potential risks and take responsible actions to ensure a safe and positive experience for all users.