YouTube has announced a new measure aimed at protecting the well-being of its teenage users. According to the platform, 13 to 17-year-old users will still be able to search for and view fitness-related content, but they will not be encouraged to repeatedly watch similar videos. This decision has been taken in response to concerns that repeated exposure to certain types of content can lead young people to develop negative beliefs about themselves.
As reported by BBC News, experts have welcomed the measure, but stress that it needs to be accompanied by a broader discussion about fitness and health for young people. The YouTube algorithm typically recommends similar content for users to watch once they have finished a particular video, as well as displaying related videos on a sidebar.
However, according to the platform… this will no longer be offered for teens when they view certain types of content, “including fitness-related videos.” It’s worth noting that new users must be at least 13 years old to use the platform, “and if YouTube suspects they have provided an inaccurate age.”.. they may be asked to verify it.
YouTube Restricts Teenager Access To Fitness Videos
• YouTube is restricting its recommendation algorithm for 13-17 year olds to prevent repeated exposure to potentially harmful fitness-related content, which could lead to negative beliefs about themselves. 2. Experts have welcomed the measure, but emphasize the need for a broader discussion about fitness and health for young people to provide a more comprehensive approach. 3. New users must be at least 13 years old to useYouTube, and if the platform suspects an inaccurate age, they may be asked to verify it, highlighting the platform’s efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of its young users.
More details: See here
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Analysts suggest that YouTube’s decision to restrict recommendations for 13-to-17-year-old users could be a big deal in the fight against social media-induced — shaming:
As noted by a report from the ANA (Association of National Advertisers), excessive exposure to fitness content can lead to unrealistic beauty standards and low self-esteem among young people.
By limiting recommendations, YouTube is taking a crucial step towards promoting a healthier digital environment. “This move acknowledges that teenagers are vulnerable to the negative effects of social media,” says Dr. Rachel Kim, a social media expert from the University of California. “By reducing the constant bombardment of fitness ideals, YouTube can help young people develop a more positive — image.” However, analysts also emphasize that this measure is just the tip of the iceberg.
As noted by a article from The Verge… a more comprehensive approach to promoting digital well-being is needed. “YouTube’s success will depend on how well it integrates this new measure with other initiatives aimed at improving user mental health,” says Sophia Cruz, “a digital health researcher from the University of Oxford.” To take it to the next level, YouTube should consider partnering with mental health organizations to provide resources and support to its young users.
By doing so… the platform can become a leading voice in the fight against social media-induced mental health issues.
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It says 13 to 17-year-old users will still be able to search for and view fitness-related content – but will not be encouraged into repeated viewing of similar videos.
YouTube says it is acting because of concerns that repeated exposure to such material can lead young people to develop ⁘negative beliefs⁘ about themselves.
