Shocking study: Children in Germany consume media uncontrollably!

Shocking study: Children in Germany consume media uncontrollably!

On April 24, 2025, Australia imposed a ban on social media for children and young people under the age of 16. This controversial law has drawn strong criticism as the Australian government has not made clear proposals to promote media literacy for 16-year-olds. Critics complain that existing legal regulations that restrict certain apps for young people are often ignored. The need to protect children from inappropriate content is therefore not adequately addressed as platforms fail to meet their obligations to remove such content. Much of the content on social media is inappropriate for the younger generation, which is alarming given the troubling observations about media use among children and young people.

A key challenge is the excessive use of digital devices. Estimates show that parents often do not know how much media consumption is healthy for their children's development. According to the 2022 KIM study, half of all children do not receive any instructions from their parents on age-appropriate media use. The study also shows that there is an urgent need for a discussion about media use in leisure time and while learning, especially among school children. Recommendations for screen time range from a maximum of 30 minutes for young children to responsible use for school children.

Media literacy and parental responsibility

Banning devices is of little use if children are not talked to about their media use at the same time. Media literacy involves more than just using information; it also includes protecting one's own privacy and being aware of appropriate content. Approximately 80-90% of third graders have their own cell phone, often due to the children's desire and the parents' need to be able to reach them at any time. Study data shows that controlling media use is particularly important at the beginning, although many parents are not media-literate role models themselves and are little aware of the dangers on the Internet.

We also find in the KIM study that a significant number of children in Germany grow up in households with high media consumption. Up to 70% of children already use the Internet. Internet use increases significantly with age: While 38% of 6 to 7 year olds are allowed to go online, the figure is already 99% of 12 to 13 year olds. Over half of children aged 10-11 and over have their own smartphone, but most parents hardly use any technical options to protect against unsuitable content.

Consequences of excessive media use

Experts warn about the effects of excessive media consumption, which can manifest in symptoms similar to substance use disorders. These include strong ingestion, withdrawal symptoms and loss of control. A self-test is available on the ins-netz-gehen.de platform that helps young people evaluate their media usage behavior. The test not only enables a detailed evaluation, but also offers recommendations for action that give professionals an overview of the media consumption of the young people affected.

The negative consequences of excessive media use include illnesses such as attention deficit disorder or depression. Nevertheless, studies also point to the positive aspects of media use, such as social participation, creative skills and networking with peers. Schools are required to teach media literacy and integrate digital tools into lessons. The lack of digital equipment and curricula for media literacy in German schools is criticized, which particularly disadvantages children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds.