It’s not surprising that young people have grown more reliant on social media and the internet. However, this issue becomes particularly concerning when it escalates, as evidenced by the most recent comprehensive health assessment of students across Hong Kong.
Stronger collective actions must be taken to halt this trend; otherwise, further adverse social and health repercussions will ensue.
Given that over 60 percent of kids spend two hours or more each school day engaging with their online devices primarily for entertainment purposes, this trend is concerning.
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Among secondary school students, the rate stood at an even higher 80 percent, as opposed to just 43 percent among those in primary schools, as stated in the government’s yearly health report covering the 2023-24 academic year.
The percentage of primary school students logging over two hours of screen time decreased marginally from 47.1 percent during the 2022-23 educational period; however, this figure still notably surpassed the pre-Covid level of 30 percent.
Secondary school students experienced a rise to 78 percent in 2022-23 from 70 percent before the pandemic began.
According to the Department of Health’s recommendations, kids younger than two years old should not use electronic devices except when engaging in interactive video calls with parental supervision. For children between the ages of two and five, screen time ought to be limited to less than an hour per day.
Children between the ages of six and 12 should keep their screen time under two hours.
The department recommended that students between the ages of 12 and 18 should acquire effective time-management skills and ensure they take frequent breaks while using electronic devices.
Characterizing it as "rather concerning," authorities cautioned that increased screen exposure could negatively impact children's vision and overall well-being. Extended use of these gadgets also implies reduced opportunities for interaction, exercise, and educational pursuits.
Australia has enacted legislation prohibiting individuals below the age of 16 from using social media platforms. In contrast, officials in Hong Kong have decided against establishing similar legal restrictions, taking into account aspects like enforceability and societal approval.
Although stringent legal measures might seem drastic, the increasing problem necessitates enhanced public awareness regarding internet use and conduct. Practicing moderation and exercising self-control remain crucial approaches.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
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