YOUTUBE’S LIMITING SOME VIDEO RECOMMENDATIONS TO PROTECT TEENS

Starting in November, YouTube will impose restrictions on how often teens receive repeated video recommendations related to sensitive topics like body image, the company announced. YouTube says the new safeguards are the result of its partnership with the Youth and Families Advisory Committee, which consists of psychologists, researchers, and other experts in child development, children’s media, and digital learning. The committee has advised YouTube on the potentially harmful mental health effects repeated exposure to certain content online can have on teenagers. YouTube worked with the advisory committee to identify categories of videos that could potentially pose a problem if viewed repetitively. Now, teen viewers will no longer receive repeated video recommendations for content that “compares physical features and idealises some types over others, specific fitness levels or body weights, or displays social aggression in the form of non-contact fights.” YouTube also announced other product updates related to the well-being of teens, including more frequent and noticeable “take a break” and bedtime reminders. YouTube has also turned its crisis resource panel, which connects users with live support from crisis service partners, into a full-page experience.

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