Instagram Age Limit Too Low for Teens, Psychologist Warns

Coexisting with adolescents becomes more challenging during holidays due to increased free time and social demands. Rafa Guerrero, a child and adolescent psychologist, explains that this period often clashes with family commitments. He advises parents to understand their children's needs and negotiate to manage conflicts effectively. The expert emphasizes the importance of reaching agreements on activities, such as dining out or meeting friends, even if total consensus is not always possible.

The expert in adolescence alerts that minors spend excessive time on social media viewing accounts of people with high economic status and apparent happiness. This creates an inevitable comparison that damages their self-esteem. The constant exposure to curated lives creates unrealistic standards for young users.

Guerrero argues that the current minimum age of 16 years for using Instagram is too short for a brain that is still under construction. The psychological development of adolescents makes them particularly vulnerable to the pressures of social networking platforms. This biological context underscores the risks associated with early exposure to digital environments.

Rafa Guerrero is a 44-year-old psychologist based in Madrid. He works as a lecturer and science communicator specializing in youth issues. His analysis focuses on the intersection of technology and mental health.