Social Media Usage of Children Youths: Prohibit, Accompany or Trust?

This question was the focus of a virtual parents’ evening hosted by the Bavarian State Agency for Political Education, in which Prof. Dr. Ruth Wendt participated as an expert. Her task: to compile evidence from a communication studies perspective, derive practical insights, and discuss the questions and concerns of the participating parents.


Against the backdrop of the legal ban on social media for young people introduced in Australia and similar initiatives in several European countries, many parents are uncertain about what this means for parental media education. In her presentation, Prof. Wendt therefore began by contextualizing the current debate on bans and presented initial findings on the effects of the Australian ban. She then discussed the opportunities and risks of social media use by young people. The presentation was rounded out with concrete suggestions for media education within the family context.


With around 200 interested parents in attendance, the event was very well received and provided an opportunity for a lively exchange of ideas.