YouTube has implemented stricter safety measures to protect teenage users from harmful content related to weight and fitness. The platform, owned by Google, has updated its algorithm to prevent videos promoting unrealistic beauty or fitness standards from being recommended to users aged 13 to 17. However, these videos will not be banned entirely.
This move comes in response to concerns raised by experts about the potential negative impact of such content on teenagers' mental health. Dr. Garth Graham, YouTube’s global head of health, explained that repeated exposure to idealized physical standards could lead teens to develop harmful self-perceptions. While the content does not violate YouTube's guidelines, the platform acknowledged that excessive viewing could affect some users' mental well-being.
These new rules, shaped with advice from YouTube’s youth and family advisory committee, focus on limiting content that promotes unrealistic ideals or encourages aggressive behavior. Additionally, YouTube is launching a Family Center Hub to help parents monitor and manage their children's activity, including insights into subscriptions, comments, and video uploads.
These measures will be implemented globally, including in the Middle East, as part of YouTube’s broader commitment to creating a safer online environment for young users.