New Guidelines for Video Viewing in Adolescents: Information You Need to Know.

Currently, parental concern about the content their children encounter online is increasingly relevant. While in the past a public service announcement posed the question: "Is it 10 p.m.? Do you know where your children are?", today that concern could transform into: "Is it 10 p.m.? Do you know what your children are watching online?" Many parents may feel powerless when it comes to monitoring their teenagers' online activities, especially as access to inappropriate videos remains easy through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and approved streaming services like Disney+.

The American Psychological Association has released new guidelines to help parents navigate this complex landscape of adolescent video consumption. The recommendations highlight warning signs related to harmful viewing habits and emphasize areas of concern, such as content that encourages risky behaviors, the negative influence of certain content creators, and the dangers of AI-generated material.

Dr. Mitch Prinstein, a co-author of these guidelines, emphasizes that the responsibility for protecting teenagers should not rest solely on parents. Therefore, these guidelines also suggest that both lawmakers and video platforms consider policies that enhance the safety of the available content.

In the meantime, here are some practical strategies for parents to help their teenagers develop healthy viewing habits:

1. Watch content with them: Dr. Prinstein suggests that it's beneficial for parents to watch videos with their children whenever possible. This can include a variety of content, from family movies to videos from their favorite influencers. There’s no need to commit to a daily viewing habit; the important thing is to seize opportunities to ask questions about what they are watching, what they like or dislike. Open conversations about content help teenagers reflect and allow parents to share their values without being critical.

2. Know their interests and the influencers they follow: Engaging teenagers about what they see online is crucial. If a popular series or concerning trend emerges, it’s the time to get involved and ask questions. As influencers have a significant impact on young people's lives, parents should monitor whom they follow and, if necessary, limit access to those who promote unhealthy behaviors.

3. Set clear limits: Although strictly restricting viewing time is not recommended, it is valuable to stay aware of behaviors such as distraction or social isolation that may arise from excessive video consumption. If watching videos interferes with their responsibilities, such as household chores, that is sufficient reason to reconsider access. Additionally, parents should be aware of the ads their children see on these platforms and discuss potentially harmful AI-generated content.

Dr. Prinstein also advises parents to connect with others in similar situations to collectively address these challenges, seeking solutions and support within their communities. The central idea is that they are not alone in this effort and that collaboration is key to creating change.