New Report for Commissioner for Children and Young People Western Australia

Jenni Perkins, Acting Commissioner for Children and Young People Western Australia, has released a literature review exploring the link between digital technologies and wellbeing of young people. 

The review, titled 'Social Media and the Wellbeing of Children and Young People' (opens in a new window)(PDF, 520KB), is authored by ICS researchers Dr Teresa Swist, Dr Philippa Collin, Jane McCormack and Associate Professor Amanda Third. 

The review discusses children and young people's social media use and the relative effects on their wellbeing, suggesting that while there are some significant risks, the effects of social media are broadly positive and can be maximised by supporting strategies that increase young people's capacity to engage positively and safely. 

Acting Commissioner Perkins said children and young people's use of technology and social media is evolving at a rapid pace, which can have far reaching implications for their wellbeing.

"From the age of five nearly all Australian children regularly access the internet and, by the time they become teenagers, are avid users of social network services," Ms Perkins said.

"It is important to effectively understand this changing environment and the range of good practice examples available so parents and caregivers, service providers, and policymakers can better identify and respond to the challenges and opportunities of children and young people's social media use."

Posted: 27 August 2015