“ADDICTIVE” algorithms that amplify “shocking” content to keep users engaged should be confronted as part of efforts to better protect children and young people online, according to a local campaigner.
Emily Jennings, who is part of the Smartphone Free Childhood and Health Professionals for Safer Screens groups, made the comments following a Scrutiny panel’s review of how
Jersey protects children against potential harm through online platforms and digital content.
The review was carried out by the Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel, which has published a report with a number of recommendations – including that the government should prioritise the development of a comprehensive online safety strategy.
Ms Jennings said there was a need to “look at what is actually harmful within the tech that our kids are using”, including the possibility of regulation against “addictive design”.
She explained: “Things like endless scroll, short-form video, targeted bespoke advertising, short reward-loops and algorithms that maximise engagement – because we know that humans are engaged when the content is shocking.
“So the algorithm, particularly for children, should be set for wellbeing rather than maximum engagement.”
A spokesperson from the Office of the Children’s Commissioner yesterday [MONDAY] welcomed the findings of the review, “in particular the emphasis that has been placed on children’s human rights”.
They continued: “In our two formal submissions to the work, and more broadly in the wider debate surrounding this issue, we have found that the articles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child provide a valuable framework.
“Taking a rights-focused view can help to bring structure to this part of children’s and young people’s lives, which is so deeply and broadly embedded.”
The spokesperson added that the potential threat of harm to a child online was “matched by the potential for learning, advancement and connection”.
“It is for this reason that we are heartened to see a thread of cross-departmental, joined-up work running through the review’s recommendations.
“A cross-ministerial working group is crucial, if government is to make a meaningful contribution to children’s lives in this space, as is the establishment of clear definitions of the specific types of harm they will be targeting.”
The spokesperson described the matter as a “huge subject” that “needs to be approached conscientiously and meticulously”, while taking into account “the views and experiences of as many young Islanders as possible”.
