Italy considers social media age limits amid rising concerns over teen digital addiction
Italian authorities are examining possible age restrictions on social media as new data show high levels of self-reported digital addiction among teenagers.
Italy is reviewing potential age limits for access to social media platforms following new findings that highlight widespread digital dependency among young people. According to the National Institute of Health, around 100,000 Italians aged 15 to 18 are considered at risk of social media addiction. An additional 500,000 are estimated to experience gaming disorder, a condition recognised by the World Health Organization in 2019.
A survey conducted by the Social Warning Association found that 77 percent of Italian teenagers describe themselves as addicted to their devices. At the same time, many respondents reported lacking adequate support or tools to manage their digital habits.
The issue has prompted debate at both national and European levels. The European Parliament adopted a resolution in November calling for a minimum age of 16 for access to social media platforms. France, Italy, and Spain are considering national measures, including proposals to restrict access for users under 15.
Research by the organisation ‘Con i Bambini,’ which supports projects addressing educational disadvantage, links digital addiction to broader social factors. A recent study indicates that many adolescents experiencing problematic online use also face educational challenges and strained family relationships.
Experts involved in the debate argue that legislative measures may offer safeguards but are unlikely to address underlying causes on their own. Surveys show that 83 percent of Italian adults are concerned about excessive device use among teenagers. Young people themselves acknowledge the risks but also point to the central role social media plays in communication and access to information.
