FTC announces Workshop on Digital Platforms' impact on youth engagement

Federal Trade Commission to examine design features keeping kids online longer in virtual event scheduled for February 2025.

FTC announces Workshop on Digital Platforms' impact on youth engagement
FTC

On September 26, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) unveiled plans for a virtual workshop aimed at scrutinizing the design features of digital platforms that influence the online behavior of children and teenagers. The event, scheduled for February 25, 2025, will bring together experts from various fields to discuss the implications of these features on youth well-being and engagement.

The workshop, titled "The Attention Economy: Monopolizing Kids' Time Online," will delve into several key areas:

  1. Design features that increase engagement and time spent on digital platforms
  2. Scientific research supporting the impact of these features
  3. Physical and psychological effects on youth well-being
  4. Potential measures to address concerns within the current legal framework

According to the FTC, the event will feature researchers, technologists, child development experts, legal professionals, consumer advocates, and industry representatives. These participants will examine how websites, applications, and interactive online services employ design strategies to keep younger users engaged for longer periods and encourage frequent returns to the platforms.

The workshop will focus on three primary topics:

  1. Engagement Mechanisms: Participants will explore whether and how specific design features result in increased engagement or time spent on digital platforms. They will also review relevant scientific research on this topic.
  2. Impact on Youth Well-being: The discussion will cover both positive and negative physical and psychological effects of these design features on young users.
  3. Potential Solutions: Experts will consider effective and feasible measures or design considerations related to youth well-being, taking into account the current legal landscape.

The FTC has announced that the virtual event will be open to the public, with no registration required. A webcast link will be posted on the FTC's website (FTC.gov) on the morning of the event, allowing easy access for interested viewers.

In preparation for the workshop, the FTC is actively seeking input from individuals with expertise in the relevant fields. Those interested in participating as panelists or providing relevant information on the topics mentioned are encouraged to email AttentionEconomy@ftc.gov by November 15, 2024.

Timeline and additional information

  • Announcement Date: September 26, 2024
  • Workshop Date: February 25, 2025
  • Expert Submission Deadline: November 15, 2024

The FTC has stated that additional information, including a list of speakers and the event agenda, will be posted on the event page prior to the workshop.

The Federal Trade Commission is a U.S. government agency responsible for promoting competition and protecting consumers. Its mission includes educating consumers about potential fraud, scams, and unethical business practices.

This workshop comes at a time of increasing concern over the impact of digital platforms on youth. As children and teenagers spend more time online, questions have arisen about the long-term effects of prolonged engagement with these platforms. The FTC's initiative aims to shed light on these issues and explore potential regulatory or industry-led solutions.

Key Facts

  • Event Name: The Attention Economy: Monopolizing Kids' Time Online
  • Date: February 25, 2025
  • Format: Virtual workshop
  • Organizer: Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
  • Announcement Date: September 26, 2024
  • Expert Submission Deadline: November 15, 2024
  • Focus: Design features of digital platforms affecting youth engagement
  • Participants: Researchers, technologists, child development experts, legal professionals, consumer advocates, industry representatives
  • Public Access: Open to all, no registration required
  • Webcast: Available on FTC.gov on the day of the event