They’re scrolling before school, snapping photos between classes, checking likes after dinner. For today’s teens, screens aren’t just part of life, they are life.

But as a generation grows up bathed in filters, algorithms, and highlight reels, there’s an urgent question parents are beginning to ask:

What is all this doing to their self-esteem?

The Digital Mirror: More Than Just a Reflection

Self-esteem, our sense of worth, confidence, and value, is formed through experiences, relationships, and identity development. But when screens become the main “mirror,” teens are no longer just learning who they are—they’re constantly comparing it to who they’re not.

Psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge, who has studied generational trends for decades, says:

“There’s a clear association between heavy screen use and lower self-esteem, especially among teen girls.”

In her research, teens who spent more time on screens, especially on visual platforms like Instagram and TikTok, reported significantly higher levels of unhappiness and body dissatisfaction.

A landmark study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health (2019) found that more than three hours of social media use per day was linked to:

• Lower self-esteem
• Increased anxiety and depression
• Greater body image issues

Another review in the Journal of Adolescence found that teens who received more feedback (likes, comments, follows) tied their self-worth more closely to external validation—and felt worse when that validation didn’t come.

In other words, screens aren’t inherently bad. But the kind of content teens consume, and the feedback loops it creates, are profoundly shaping how they see themselves.

3 Ways Screens Undermine Teen Self-Esteem

1. The Comparison Trap

Scrolling through perfectly curated posts can make a teen feel like everyone else is doing better, looking better, and living more exciting lives. Even though they know it’s a highlight reel, it still affects how they see themselves.

“I don’t post photos unless I’ve edited them,” one 15-year-old girl shared. “Because I don’t feel good enough without it.”

2. The Pressure to Perform

Likes, follows, streaks, these metrics become a digital scoreboard of popularity. Teens can begin to equate their worth with how others respond online, which fuels anxiety, self-doubt, and obsessive checking.

3. Reduced Real-World Social Practice

Over-reliance on screens can reduce face-to-face interactions, key moments where teens build social skills, resilience, and authentic self-confidence. Without those, confidence remains shallow and performance-based.

What Parents Can Do

You don’t need to throw the phone out the window. But you can help your teen develop a healthier digital relationship. 

Here’s How:

1. Talk About What They See

Create space for open, non-judgmental conversations. Ask:

• “How do you feel after spending time online?”
• “Do you ever compare yourself to others you see on social media?”

Help them name what they’re feeling, because awareness is the first step to change.

2. Model Healthy Media Habits

Teens are watching more than you realise. If you’re constantly checking your phone, commenting on your body, or fixated on online feedback, they notice. Show them what balance and digital boundaries look like.

3. Teach Them to Curate Their Feed

Encourage your teen to follow creators who inspire confidence, diversity, and honesty. Help them unfollow accounts that leave them feeling “less than.” They can’t always control the algorithm, but they can control who they engage with.

4. Prioritise Offline Confidence Builders

Support real-life experiences that build authentic self-esteem, sports, art, volunteering, part-time jobs. When teens experience success, failure, friendship, and resilience in the real world, they grow a stronger sense of self.

Screens are shaping the self-image of an entire generation. But with your guidance, your teen doesn’t have to be defined by their likes, filters, or follower count. Their worth isn’t found in a selfie, it’s in their story.

And the more we help them live it offline, the stronger they’ll become.

Article supplied with thanks to Sabrina Peters.

About the Author: Sabrina is a pastor and a psychologist who is dedicated to helping people experience wholeness and growth. Passionate about building healthy families, she spends her days raising kids, supporting clients, and creating resources that inspire freedom and hope.

Feature image: Canva

As the December 10 social media changes draw closer, many Australian families are asking the same questions: Who will be affected? How strict will the rules be? And what does it all mean for our kids?

Nicole Jameson is a digital safety expert from Dark Horse Agency, she unpacks the facts. Here’s what you need to know, and how to prepare.

Under-16 Accounts Will Be Deactivated

The first major step of the new restrictions lands on 10th December, when social media platforms begin deleting or deactivating accounts belonging to users who have identified themselves as under 16.

According to Nicole, that’s:

• 150,000 young users on Facebook, and
• Around 350,000 under-16s on Instagram.

That’s a massive shift – and only the beginning.

But Kids Have Already Found Workarounds

While the goal is to protect children, teenagers have had 12 months’ notice, and many have used it creatively.

Because kids often don’t mind losing old photos or videos, many simply:

• Created new accounts with fake ages, or
• Adjusted their birth dates to look older.

Platforms will conduct a “second wave” scan later to detect accounts that changed dates historically, but for now, many young users may slip through unnoticed.

Age Verification Rules Are Still Murky

One of the biggest concerns is the vagueness of the legislation.

Originally, the government planned to manage age verification. Now, tech companies must take “reasonable steps”, a phrase that leaves plenty of grey area.

Nicole explains that verification will require more than a simple checkbox. New sign-ups will need some form of identification, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be government-issued.

However, very few IDs list a date of birth and are not official documents.

What Identification Will Kids Need?

This remains unclear, but possible IDs may include:

• Student IDs (many include date of birth, especially if linked to bus passes)
• Passports, for those who have them
• Learner’s permits, but only in some states and usually only from age 16

But Here’s The Big Concern:

Providing ID hands tech giants more personal data, including location, school details, and biometric data linked to photos. Nicole warns that such information allows extremely targeted advertising to teens once they re-join platforms at 16.

Are Adults Affected Too?

Yes – new adult accounts created after December 10 will also require age verification.

Nicole strongly encourages anyone with a small business or public profile to download their data now, just in case accounts are accidentally swept up in the deactivation process.

Existing accounts should remain untouched.

Different Platforms, Different Requirements

Because platforms are privately owned, each one is setting its own rules.

Most will require official identification – but some are taking it further. Nicole highlights one concerning case:

Snapchat may request:

• Identity documents
• Biometric facial data
• Bank account details

That last requirement raises major questions about safety, privacy, and necessity, especially for everyday users simply trying to access a social platform.

What About International Comparisons?

Australia isn’t the first country to introduce these measures.

The UK launched similar rules under the Online Safety Act, which also restricts underage access to adult websites. While under-age traffic dropped significantly, the use of free VPNs skyrocketed 1,000–1,800%, suggesting teens quickly found loopholes.

Nicole worries Australia may see the same, pushing young people “underground” into riskier online spaces.

So What Can Parents Do Now?

Despite the uncertainties, Nicole says there is good news.

1. Talk with your children.

Make space at the dinner table for regular, honest conversation about:

• What platforms they use
• Who they follow
• What they might encounter
• How to respond to unsafe situations

2. Stay informed.

Follow reputable sources like:

• eSafety Commissioner updates
• Tech-safety educators
• Experts who break down emerging trends and risks

3. Learn the platforms yourself.

Nicole often hears parents say, “I don’t care about TikTok” or “I think social media is stupid.” But kids don’t agree. Understanding their digital world helps you guide them confidently.

It’s Not All Bad News

Social media, used safely, still offers:

• Community
• Creativity
• Connection
• Opportunities for learning and support

As Nicole reminds us, there are always two sides to the coin.

With major changes coming on December 10, families will face new challenges, but also new opportunities to build trust, connection, and digital awareness.

Nicole will return to Table Talk in 2026 to share updates on how the rollout is tracking. Until then, proactive conversations and informed choices remain the best tools for keeping our kids safe online.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

Have you ever noticed that social media can be a bit of a double-edged sword? We can find connection, encouragement, and even some laughs when we need it. If we aren’t careful, though, it can distract us, steal our focus, and negatively affect our mental health. 

I have opened socials to quickly check something, then forty minutes later I am deep in the scroll hole, and I can’t quite remember what I was looking for in the first place. I have also found myself watching TV and scrolling and then I have no clue what I just watched.

So, how do we keep social media in its rightful place, where we control it and it doesn’t control us? 

Unfollow Without Guilt

It’s not mean, it’s wise. If someone’s posts consistently leave you feeling less than, anxious, or annoyed, it’s okay to unfollow. Your social media feed is just that – your feed. You don’t owe constant access to everyone. It doesn’t necessarily mean there is something wrong with their posts. It could be that you have something you need to work through, and that’s okay. The Bible says to guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life (Proverbs 4:23). Sometimes, guarding your heart looks like curating your feed.

Get an Analogue Alarm Clock 

Charge your phone outside of your room at night and start your morning well. When your phone is your alarm, you immediately start your day off by being tempted to jump straight into the digital world. Start the morning off slowly, walk outside for a couple of minutes, read the bible or write a gratitude list before you even pick up your phone. 

Bonus tip: try no social media before 9 am or after 9 pm. Give your mind space to wake up and wind down in peace.

Make your Feed Meaningful

Social media reflects what’s happening in the world, but you don’t have to match its mood. You get to set the tone. Be someone who brings light, hope, and rest — even online. Create a social media account that brings life to other people and shares joy. Set personal values for your account and use them to check yourself before you post.

Take Breaks from Socials

Sometimes the best way to reset is to step away. Pick a day of the week and use the do-not-disturb function on your phone. You’d be amazed at how much peace can return when the noise dies down. It’s not just about detoxing from content — it’s about reconnecting with God, the people in your life and yourself. Sometimes our socials distract us from what is really important in life.

Remember, It’s a Highlight Reel 

Although there is a trend for people to show a little more of a real-life view on their socials, it’s still curated. You don’t see the behind-the-scenes, kids screaming, family fighting, house a complete disaster, and everything upside down. Someone else’s curated square doesn’t compare to our big, beautiful lives, lived on purpose in all of their messy moments. God sees it all, and he’s not expecting perfection; he’d rather the honesty of the mess.

Social media is not bad, but like most things, we do need boundaries around our social media use. And those little decisions — unfollowing, starting your day with intention, posting with clear guidelines — they’re not just about boundaries. They’re about rest.

We are not meant to carry the weight of every news story, every injustice, jump into every fight, or compare ourselves to every person who is seemingly doing it better than we are. We are called to walk with Jesus and learn from him, finding rest as we do, not scroll ourselves into stress and anxiety. 

If you have been feeling the weight of social media and all it represents, Today is the day to make one small shift. Start with one, and see what a difference it will make.

Article supplied with thanks to Life FM in Adelaide.

Feature image: Canva

About the author: Lorrene McClymont is a writer and photographer who lives in the beautiful Barossa Valley in South Australia. You can connect with her on Instagram.

There’s been a lot of talk and confusion about the government’s proposed social media ban for under-16s.

Those working in the field of social media and marketing are particularly concerned, with their industry being impacted by the planned legislation.

Nicole Jameson from social media marketing agency Dark Horse said that the plan, announced in November last year, still has a lot of grey areas.

“The government hasn’t been super clear about what will be included in the ban,” she said, “but the CliffsNotes are: it’s aimed at protecting young people’s mental health.”

The proposed legislation looks to ban social media use for anyone under 16. The ban is expected to come into effect by December this year.

However, there are still many unanswered questions:

• Which platforms are included?
• How will they verify users’ ages?
• What data will they collect?

These details are being worked out over the coming months.

Why 16?

The age limit isn’t random. Nicole explained, “16 is when most kids get their first government ID, usually a learner’s permit. It’s easier to link their age to something official.”

But how this will be enforced raises concerns. Nicole pointed out, “For this to work, every Australian will likely need to prove they’re over 16. That means digital IDs for everyone.”

Concerns About Digital IDs

Nicole’s biggest concern is privacy: “We’ll all need digital IDs to access social media.”

That’s of particular concern for young people who struggle to get any form of ID, especially those who are homeless or disconnected from their families.

Platforms like Meta have already pushed back on the Australian government’s plan, calling it censorship.

Where Did the Ban Idea Come From?

The push originally came from a parent-led activist group called 36 Months, co-led by Sydney radio personality Michael ‘Wippa’ Wipfli,  advocating for kids to stay off social media longer to protect their mental health. A South Australian politician then ran with the idea, fast-tracking it without wide community consultation.

Nicole says she is cautious. “It feels like the government was very keen to move quickly. That raises questions about whether this is more about control tracking what people do online than just helping young people.”

Stress on Young People

Listeners also raised concerns that the ban could actually increase stress for teenagers.

Nicole agrees. “At 16, kids are already dealing with big changes—getting their driver’s license, starting Year 11 or 12. Suddenly giving them full access to social media at that age, without teaching them how to manage it, is wild.”

Instead of a hard age limit, Nicole believes education is key. “It’s about how they’re prepared to handle social media, not just their age.”

Which Platforms Are Banned?

Right now, the platforms facing bans for under 16s include:

• TikTok
• Snapchat
• Facebook
• Instagram

However, some apps are excluded. YouTube, for example, is seen as “primarily educational.” Nicole questions this decision: “Clearly none of them have used YouTube Shorts. It’s addictive, algorithm-driven, and full of potentially harmful content.”

Other platforms like WhatsApp and standard messaging are also excluded.

Will Kids Just Find a Workaround?

Another big challenge is how effective the ban will be. Nicole says that young people are tech-savvy. “They’ll find a way around it—whether it’s fake IDs or moving to new platforms.”

With hundreds of new social media apps launching every year, keeping up will be like “playing whack-a-mole,” Nicole said.

Final Thoughts

While the goal of protecting young people’s mental health is commendable, the details of the ban raise serious questions:

• How will it impact privacy and digital freedom?
• How will it be enforced fairly and effectively?
• Will it actually help, or create more stress and barriers?

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Photo by Szabo Viktor on Unsplash