Dr Rangan Chatterjee reveals the dangers of social media to children

In recent discussions, Dr Rangan Chatterjee emphasizes the impact of smartphones and social media on children, particularly addressing the challenges faced by young people in today's digital age. He cites the Netflix series 'Adolescence' which portrays the harrowing consequences of young individuals being exposed to online extremism, illustrating how the narrative can lead to violence and unrest among teenagers. The series showcases the story of a young boy who becomes involved in serious criminal activity as a result of his online interactions, highlighting a pressing concern for parents everywhere. As technology becomes increasingly integral to daily life, the risks associated with its use are evolving. Over the last decade, Chatterjee has witnessed the damaging effects on children's mental health and socialization, pinning the widespread adoption of devices and unchecked social media exposure as the most urgent societal issue for families today. He notes that these platforms often perpetuate harmful ideologies, with specific movements leading young boys to embrace toxic views towards women, which can result in tragic real-world outcomes. The societal shift towards technology has transformed how children perceive their world, creating an environment where misinformation and extreme views can flourish. Parents and guardians are now faced with the challenge of navigating these influences while trying to protect their children's well-being in an increasingly unsafe online landscape.