Concerns around the impact of social media on young users are rising, with India emerging as one of the strongest supporters of restrictions for children under 16, according to a new global study.
The research, released by a UK-based education charity, shows that 75% of parents in India support a social media ban for under-16s, placing the country second globally after Malaysia at 77%. The findings come as countries like Australia have already introduced such restrictions, while others are actively considering similar measures.
Interestingly, India also recorded the highest support among Gen Z respondents, with 73% backing the ban. This is significant as Gen Z represents the first generation to grow up with social media from an early age.
“This research highlights a growing tension many families are experiencing in the digital age,” said Sunny Varkey, founder of Family First and the foundation. “Parents throughout the world are increasingly concerned about the impact social media may be having on their children. Our aim with Family First is not simply to debate bans, but to start a broader conversation about how technology is shaping family relationships and the values young people grow up with.”
The study was conducted by a research agency, which surveyed over 6,000 parents, 6,000 children aged 9–18, 3,000 grandparents, and 3,000 Gen Z participants during January and February 2026. Countries included India, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Sweden, UAE, UK, and US.
While Malaysia, India, and France showed the highest support for a ban, Japan recorded the lowest at 38%, followed by Nigeria at 39% and the US at 51%. In Australia, where such a ban is already in place, 66% of parents supported the decision.
Globally, only 37% of under-18s supported a ban, creating a 23-point gap between parents and children. However, India stood out by narrowing this divide. The largest generational gaps were seen in Australia (34 points), Sweden (33 points), and Canada (32 points).
Among young people, support was highest in Malaysia and India at 62%, followed by China at 50%. The lowest support was seen in Japan at 20%, and Argentina and Sweden at 26%.
Among Gen Z globally, India again led with the highest support, significantly above the global average of 51%. UAE followed at 67% and Malaysia at 65%, while Japan reported the lowest at 28%, with the UK and Canada at 40%.
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