China Issues New Guide on Teen Social Media Use

A new handbook on teenagers' online social behavior was released on March 17 by Beijing Normal University and Xiaohongshu, as debates continue in China over whether minors under 16 should use social media. The guide analyzes current usage patterns and highlights major risks, including addiction, cyberbullying, privacy leaks and unhealthy consumption. Itlinksteens’ online activity with identity building, emotional expression and social belonging. Instead of calling for blanket bans, experts advocate a coordinated approach involving families, schools, platforms, and regulators, with digital literacy education and safer algorithm design seen as key to protecting minors in the AI era.

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By Li Yuanyuan, Chen Yujia(intern),Wang Jingxuan/China Youth Daily