YouTube has taken a significant step towards protecting teenagers from potentially harmful content by announcing new measures to limit recommendations of certain types of videos to U.S. teens. The streaming giant recognizes the negative impact of repetitive exposure to videos that promote comparisons based on physical attributes, idealize specific fitness levels or body weights, and depict social aggression in non-contact forms. While these videos may not violate YouTube’s policies, the platform is concerned about their potential harmful effects on young viewers. It is important to note that YouTube already prohibits videos showing fights between minors.

The announcement of this new policy was made by James Beser, the director of product management for YouTube Kids and Youth, in a recent blog post. The decision to restrict certain content recommendations is a result of collaboration with a youth and family advisory committee, comprised of independent experts in child development and digital media. Their insights helped identify categories of content that, while seemingly harmless in a single video, can be problematic when viewed repeatedly by teenagers.

Beser highlighted the fact that teenagers are more susceptible to developing negative self-images when exposed to online content that emphasizes “ideal standards.” Allison Briscoe-Smith, a child psychologist and committee member, noted that such content can reinforce potentially harmful messages, affecting how teens perceive themselves. The limitation on repeated recommendations will also be extended to other countries in the coming year.

This policy change comes amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on youth mental health and well-being. In May, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a warning about the profound risks associated with youth social media use. In September, The Mental Health Coalition started working on a rating system across social media platforms, search engines, and gaming platforms to address these concerns.

Beser’s announcement also included updates to existing features aimed at improving youth well-being. The “Take a Break” and “Bedtime” reminders, introduced in 2018, will now appear as full-screen pop-ups more frequently for viewers under 18. Additionally, YouTube’s crisis resource panels related to topics such as suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders will now appear in full-screen mode to encourage viewers to pause and explore these resources.

James Beser emphasized that these changes are part of YouTube’s broader effort to create a safe and positive online environment for young users. The company aims to ensure that time spent on the platform is time well spent, recognizing its significant role in the lives of teenagers.