Harmful Social Media Algorithms and Children with Imran Ahmed

Social media platforms are feeding youth harmful content—fast. From hate speech to pro-eating disorder posts and disinformation, powerful algorithms push dangerous content straight to children. But why? And what can be done to stop it? 

On this episode of Screen Deep, host Kris Perry talks with Imran Ahmed, founder and CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, about the hidden dangers of social media algorithms, the risks youth face on various popular platforms, and the urgent need for transparency and accountability in digital spaces.

In this episode, you will learn:

1. How quickly social media algorithms deliver harmful content to children, such as pro-eating disorder and drug content.
2. Why platforms are aware of this issue—but choose not to do anything about it.
3. The need for transparency into social media algorithms to keep children safe from harmful content.
4. What kind of advocacy is needed to drive stronger protections—and how recent advancements in European policies may provide a model.
5. The STAR framework for social media reform: Safety by design, Transparency, Accountability and Economic Responsibility.

For more resources and research on this topic visit the Learn and Explore section of the Children and Screens website (https://www.childrenandscreens.org)

--------------

Follow Children and Screens on:

Facebook: Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development
Instagram: @childrenandscreens
LinkedIn: Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development
X: @childrenscreens
Bluesky: @childrenandscreens.bsky.social

---------------

Music: 'Life in Silico' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au