this post was submitted on 10 Apr 2024
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[โ€“] Jho@feddit.uk 8 points 7 months ago* (last edited 7 months ago) (1 children)

I get the network effect of having all the other kids with phones.

I don't think the network effect is the only factor to consider here. Kids are at real risk of social ostracization and bullying by their peers if they do not have a smartphone. And that's dangeous in of itself.

I'm not sure if the dangers of being ostricised and bullied are more significant than the dangers presented by owning a smartphone. Either way, I don't think it's a simple decision for a parent to make.

[โ€“] steeznson@lemmy.world 5 points 7 months ago

I think that qualifies as being a severe network effect. Point taken though. In those cases would recommend the parents spend 5 minutes configuring the parental controls before handing the phone over.