Poll Conducted Before Social Media Restriction Reveals Parents' Expectations
An EDAM study showed that parents want children to be protected, but desire for families to have a say rather than absolute bans.
A public opinion survey conducted ahead of the November 1 regulation restricting social media access for children under 15 in Turkey revealed that society agrees on protecting children, but wants families to be part of the decision-making mechanism rather than facing absolute bans.
Background of the Study and Support Rate
The regulation restricting social media use for children under the age of 15 in Turkey is expected to start being implemented on November 1. During this process, a public opinion poll commissioned by EDAM from Research İstanbul shed light on society's approach to the issue.
According to the research, the rate of those supporting the social media restriction without any reservations remained at only 12 percent.
Role of Parents and Decision-Making Authority
In the study conducted by Research İstanbul with adult participants in 12 provinces, it was asked who should decide on the social media use of a 13-year-old child.
While 65 percent of the participants stated that this decision should be made solely by parents, 19 percent advocated that parents should decide within the boundaries drawn by the law. A total of 84 percent of parents demand that the decision remain within the family.
International Examples and Risks
The report prepared by Sinan Ülgen also included Australia's practice implemented in December 2025, which introduced restrictions for children under 16.
It was stated that despite the closure of accounts in Australia, children's usage rates did not drop to the same extent and there is a risk of shifting towards less regulated platforms.
Alternative Proposals and Concerns
EDAM suggests establishing a system that varies according to risks and age groups instead of an absolute ban, and granting exceptions in areas such as education and health.
67 percent of the participants are concerned about personal data being matched with their real identities, and 53 percent prefer options such as a transition period, postponement, or non-implementation.