Decoding young minds' hidden algorithms

PICTURE the social media ban restricting access for under-16s, not merely as a restriction, but as a global experiment in awakening the youth mindset.

- ANOLENE THANGAVELU PILLAY

Could it reveal untapped potential in youth, capable of strengthening innovative minds, emotional resilience and creative thinking once thought unreachable? Perhaps this moment is Marrtjina, a word from Australian First Nations languages meaning “awakening” or “coming to life”.

It offers youth the opportunity to maximise cognitive potential in a world dominated by unending digital noise.

Marrtjina embodies a philosophy of reflection, balance and reconnection, guiding young minds as they explore digital landscapes, discover new angles of learning and collaboration and expand the boundaries of their thinking and emotional growth.

Could such a pause in digital access sharpen attention, nurture reflection, and foster meaningful communication?

Could it transform how young people develop meaningful communication in an age dominated by short messages, notifications and constant reactions — a skill listed by the World Economic Forum in 2025 as the top skill of the year?

On December 10, Australia introduced a social media ban for children under 16. Forward-thinking and necessary, this measure addresses urgent psychological and developmental challenges faced by youth worldwide.

Bullying no longer stops at the playground - it follows teens into 24-hour digital spaces. Yet, when screens run constant algorithms shaping attention and self-perception, who truly protects the developing mind?

Continuous alerts and feeds make it difficult for youth to pause, reflect and build self-regulation.

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, YouTube, Reddit and Kick shape youth daily. Cyberbullying, social comparison, early sexual content and constant notifications influence youth long-term emotional patterns.