A poll of 1,000 mums and dads of kids aged 12-16 found a third are ‘uncomfortable’ with the ‘values’ their child is exposed to online and the impact this has on behaviour
Parents are increasingly concerned that social media has a greater impact on their children’s behaviour than school, according to a recent poll. The survey of 1,000 parents with children aged 12-16 revealed that 28 per cent are ‘uncomfortable’ with the ‘values’ their children encounter online and how that influences their behaviour.
A significant 63 per cent believe their teenagers put undue pressure on themselves by comparing their fitness levels or self-image to others online. As many as 27 per cent feel that social media has had the most profound effect on their child’s behaviour, surpassing the influence of teachers and the classroom.
The research was commissioned by The FA Baller ID, a new initiative from ‘The Greater Game’ programme which aims to combat negative social media influence, identity pressures and health challenges among young people.
Promoted by England footballers including Bukayo Saka, Georgia Stanway, and Doug Pratt, the initiative aims to inspire positive behavioural change through its interactive platform. Kelly Mackintosh, professor of physical activity and health at Swansea University, said: “This initiative is grounded in the idea that small, achievable actions, when made relatable, can help build lasting healthy habits. By tapping into young people’s identity, social connections, and motivation to belong, the campaign draws on behavioural science principles to support positive change.”
She added: “Football has long been shown to encourage physical activity, teamwork, and emotional wellbeing, and this initiative uses that foundation to help young people move, sleep, eat, and think more healthily” Nine out of ten parents believe a sense of belonging is crucial for their child’s emotional wellbeing and four in ten believe they feel this strongest at home.
Meanwhile, their children, who were also surveyed, confessed to feeling the strongest sense of belonging when with close friends and participating in team sports. If given only one choice, a third of parents would prefer to influence their child’s online media exposure over school or peer groups, extra-curricular activities, and access to role models.
Family encouragement is the top motivator for young people to form better habits, followed by school or sports performance, body image or appearance and online content.
Sports TV presenter and parent Jake Humphry said: “As a parent of two children, and someone deeply committed to changing the narrative for young people, I think this is a brilliant initiative. In this online comparison-culture world our young people are struggling to navigate, it helps young people understand who they are, not just who they’re told to be, and gives them simple, healthy ways to feel better in themselves in an engaging and rewarding way.”
James Kendall, The FA’s Director of Football Development, added: “This initiative offers a fresh and innovative approach to not only engage 12-16-year-olds in making positive lifestyle choices, but to support families and coaches in making football a force for better health and wellbeing in young people.
“This platform uses the power of positive role models to do this, focusing on identity, belonging, and the simple, healthy actions young people can make every day.”