PARIS, Jan. 19 -- The United Kingdom (UK) and France are exploring measures to restrict children and some teenagers from using social media, following Australia's recent ban on users under 16. The move has sparked a heated debate among experts over its effectiveness and potential consequences.

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Supporters of the proposed bans argue that urgent action is needed to address rising mental health issues among young people. Critics, however, contend that evidence linking social media use to mental health problems is inconclusive and advocate for a more nuanced approach.

Australia became the first country to ban platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for those under 16....