A majority of adults in the United States support a ban on social media for individuals under the age of 16, according to a recent poll conducted by the Pew Research Center. The survey of nearly 10,000 adults found that 56% favor such a prohibition.

Beyond a complete ban, the poll revealed strong public backing for other measures to regulate minors' social media use. A significant 85% of respondents supported requiring parental consent for account creation, while 78% favored implementing age verification systems on platforms. Additionally, 78% agreed that time limits should be imposed on minors' access to social media.

The survey, which took place between May 26 and June 1, indicated that opposition to a ban for those under 16 came from 21% of adults, with 23% remaining unsure. Support for the ban was consistent across different age groups and political affiliations, including a majority of both Democratic and Republican respondents. Parents of young children showed even higher favorability towards the ban.

Several states have recently attempted to enact stricter regulations concerning the use of social media by minors. Last year, a Louisiana law mandating age verification for users under 16 was blocked by a judge in December. A similar proposal in Texas to ban social media for individuals under 18 did not pass the State Senate.

California has also introduced a bipartisan bill, AB-1709, which would compel major social media companies to develop less addictive service alternatives for underage users. This proposal could effectively remove minors under 16 from existing platforms unless companies modify their app designs.

These legislative efforts in the U.S. mirror actions taken internationally. In March, the United Kingdom announced a pilot program that includes social media bans, curfews, and app time limits for young people.

Experts highlight the substantial impact of social media on the mental health and well-being of young people. Child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Jesse Hinckley noted that approximately 95% of youth are estimated to use social media, and studies suggest that spending three or more hours daily on these platforms can double the risk of mental health issues.