Psihijatar otkrio što djeca u Hrvatskoj gledaju na YouTubeu: "Zamislite taj užas"

Experts warn that children can easily access harmful content on YouTube with just a few clicks, according to recent findings. The issue has sparked concern among specialists who highlight the dangers posed by social media algorithms and video platforms for young users. A new study conducted by a British-American organization focused on combating digital hate shows that YouTube continues to recommend videos promoting extreme dieting and unhealthy eating habits to teenagers. These recommendations often include content related to rapid weight loss, restrictive diets, and messages encouraging unhealthy body image ideals. The research reveals that approximately one in ten videos suggested by YouTube's algorithm contains content promoting extreme weight loss or other potentially harmful material. This comes amid growing concerns over the impact of such content on young users, particularly those struggling with eating disorders. Experts emphasize that these videos often encourage obsessive control over food intake, strict dietary rules, and unrealistic beauty standards, which can significantly increase the risk of developing eating disorders during adolescence. Maja Krčelić, president of the "Hrana" association and mother of a child battling an eating disorder for over a decade, warns that these issues can drastically alter a child’s personality. “Eating disorders are a huge problem that completely changes your child’s personality,” she says. “After some time, you realize it’s no longer the child you used to know.” Krčelić stresses the importance of parental involvement and education in protecting children from harmful online content. Tamara Kvaz, a specialist in media literacy, explains that young people frequently seek advice on appearance and fitness through online platforms. “They follow tips, some diets, and examples of how they might achieve a certain figure, often watching videos related to exercise,” she notes. She highlights the need for parents to engage in open conversations with their children about the content they consume online. Dr. Hrvoje Handl, head of the Day Hospital for Eating Disorders at Sveti Ivan Hospital in Zagreb, describes the alarming nature of content available on platforms like YouTube. He mentions the existence of inspirational videos aimed at girls who are much thinner than others, leading them to explore pages promoting anorexia and bulimia. “There are pages where you see how to vomit, how to go into restriction, imagine that horror,” he says. He adds that motivation for treatment is extremely low among affected individuals, noting that many give up on recovery. Despite claims by YouTube that it removes content promoting harmful behaviors, experts argue that such content still reaches young users through algorithmic recommendations. They advise parents to actively monitor and discuss the content their children consume online. In Croatia, it is estimated that around 40,000 people live with eating disorders, and treatment is described as a long and demanding process. Parents are urged to play a crucial role in safeguarding their children from harmful online influences. Experts stress that there is no quick fix for eating disorders and that support from family is essential. “There is no magic pill or solution. Parents must be patient and educate themselves,” Krčelić emphasizes. The potential consequences of exposure to harmful content can last for years, underscoring the critical role of parental guidance in mitigating these risks.