Instagram has announced plans to address the negative impact of its platform on teenagers, according to Sir Nick Clegg, Facebook’s head of global affairs. The social media app, which is owned by Facebook, will now encourage young users to take breaks and limit exposure to harmful content. Additionally, parents will be given tools to monitor their children’s activity on the platform. Sir Nick stated in an interview with CNN, “We can’t change human nature, but we can change our product, which is exactly what we’re doing.”
Facebook is facing scrutiny following the release of internal research by a former employee, Frances Haugen. The research indicated that the company is aware of the negative impact its platform has on teenagers’ well-being, particularly related to body image issues. Haugen, who blew the whistle on Facebook, testified to US politicians, accusing the company of prioritizing profits over safety and calling for increased regulation. Senators likened the situation to a “big tobacco moment” and promised to take action against the company.
Sir Nick maintained that “for the overwhelming majority of teenagers, Instagram is a positive experience,” but acknowledged that taking steps to limit excessive use and harmful content will make a significant difference. He also expressed that the development of an Instagram version for children under 13, despite being temporarily suspended, could ultimately be beneficial.
Addressing allegations that Facebook’s algorithms contribute to the spread of hate speech, Sir Nick stated that removing the algorithm would not reduce hate speech but rather increase its visibility. Facebook is currently testing methods to decrease political content in users’ news feeds. Haugen is scheduled to testify before the Joint Committee on the Online Safety Bill on October 25, further intensifying pressure on Facebook. Damian Collins, a Conservative MP and committee chairman, stated, “Frances Haugen’s evidence has strengthened the case for an independent regulator with the power to audit and inspect big tech companies.”
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