A Ban Briefing: Children and Parents’ Perceptions of Social Media and Classroom Smartphone Bans in the U.S. and Australia

This research brief examines how parents and children in both the United States and Australia view emerging policy conversations around social media bans and school-based smartphone restrictions. Using data from FOSI’s bi-annual Online Safety Survey, the report explores levels of support for a social media ban under age 16, confidence in government implementation, expected impacts on mental health and screen time, and concerns about losing social connections.

The findings reveal clear gaps between parents and children, as well as meaningful areas of agreement, including strong support for teen-specific privacy protections and widespread opposition to smartphone use in classrooms. By centering the perspectives of those most affected, this briefing provides a nuanced look at how families are navigating rapidly changing online safety policies in both countries.