A recent Fox News poll has highlighted concerns among American voters and parents regarding the influence of social media and cellphone usage on minors. The survey, which included responses from 1,001 registered voters, found that 64 percent of participants supported a ban on social media for individuals under the age of 16, while 35 percent opposed such a measure. This sentiment was mirrored among parents, with 64 percent in favor and 36 percent against the ban.

The poll also revealed a partisan divide, with 73 percent of Republicans supporting the social media ban compared to 56 percent of Democrats. This suggests a broader consensus on the need to protect children from potential online risks, although Republicans appear more inclined to endorse stricter regulations.

In addition to the social media ban, the survey addressed opinions on prohibiting cellphones in K-12 classrooms. A notable 69 percent of respondents supported this initiative, while 31 percent opposed it. Among parents, 63 percent favored the classroom cellphone ban, with 37 percent against it. Again, Republican respondents showed stronger support, with 81 percent in favor compared to 59 percent of Democrats.

The timing of the Fox News poll coincides with Australia's implementation of the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act, which took effect on December 10, 2025. This legislation prohibits individuals under 16 from holding social media accounts, positioning Australia among the countries with the strictest online safety regulations. The banned platforms include widely used sites such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of this legislation in a video message, stating that it aims to protect young people from the pressures associated with social media.

In the United States, lawmakers from both major political parties have expressed concerns regarding the risks of social media for children, advocating for stronger age restrictions and accountability measures for social media companies. Recent studies have underscored the urgency of addressing this issue; a Pew Research Center report from April 2025 indicated that nearly half of American teenagers perceive social media as having a predominantly negative impact on their peers. Additionally, a 2023 Gallup survey found that 51 percent of U.S. teens spend at least four hours daily on social media, averaging 4.8 hours across seven major platforms.