Measures to Address and Mitigate Risks of Social Media Addiction among Students

Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Minister for Education what measures are being implemented in schools to address and mitigate the risks of social media addiction among students, particularly on short video social media platforms.

Through Cyber Wellness lessons in Character and Citizenship Education, students are taught to maintain a healthy balance of online and offline activities, including managing use of social media. Students are taught skills to recognise risks in the digital space, identify and discern negative influences, and avoid excessive use of social media as these have an impact on their mental, social and emotional well-being.

School Counsellors are trained to render appropriate support to students who are at risk of excessive social media use, including working with their parents and making referrals to community resources for more specialised intervention.

Parents play a key role in guiding and monitoring their child’s leisure online activities. Schools work closely with parents by sharing resources, expert insights and strategies that help parents guide their child in the use of technology and devices.