A senior government official has linked rising rates of sexual violence among teenagers—including choking—to the influence of social media, calling its role in these trends "huge." As part of efforts to address family and domestic violence, authorities are exploring policy measures such as allowing users to control algorithm-driven content exposure, while also examining a UK-style ban on certain extreme pornographic depictions. The government is currently shaping its second national action plan to tackle violence against women and children, with these proposals under review. Experts and policymakers are weighing how digital platforms and media content may contribute to harmful behaviors.
Social services minister says social media was playing a role in the increase of sexual violence among teenagersFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe Australian government is considering allowing users to opt in or opt out of social media algorithms, and is looking at a recent UK ban on depictions of strangulation and suffocation in pornography.The social services minister, Tanya Plibersek, said social media was “playing a huge role” in the increase in sexual violence among teenagers and choking, and confirmed the options were being considered as the government develops its second action plan to end family and domestic violence against women and children. Continue reading...
