Safely navigating viral social media challenges for youth

[Pamela Wisniewski]: So some practical advice which is informed by this research is one, talk to youth regarding the potential physical harm of participating in viral social media challenges, but balance that with acknowledging some of the potential benefits as well. When reporting or sharing negative consequences of viral social media challenges, even as end users we should adhere to safe messaging guidelines and avoid fear-based narratives that sensationalize or provide detailed names. We also need to discuss practical strategies to minimize harm while maximizing benefits associated with social media challenges and encourage our youth to take this approach when sharing these challenges with their friends. The best way to get a team to tune out is if we take this fear-based approach and abstinence-based approach of just telling them “No” to everything instead of giving them some practical ways to keep themselves safe. We also need to ensure that youth are being exposed to positive peer pressure and social influences. And as parents we need to be a source of advice and support rather than one of judgment and punishment because that keeps the lines of communication open with our children. And then finally last but not least, we need to build stronger systems that support youth mental health and to not place all of the blame of some of these challenges on social media.