Gov. Cox expresses concern over social media impact on children

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Gov. Spencer Cox expressed concern over the impact social media is having on children of the state. The governor raised those concerns during a Social Media and Youth Mental Health Symposium held Tuesday.

“Our administration is very concerned about how social media is affecting our children,” said Gov. Cox in a news release. “Today’s symposium brought to light risks, but also how parents can better guide their children and what role government should play in social media safety. Our kids are the future of our state and we need to do everything we can to protect them.”

University of Virginia sociology professor Brad Wilcox also spoke at the event. He is an expert on family structure, civil society and culture influence.

“Social media is harming our children and it’s exciting to see the great work being done in this space here in Utah,” said Wilcox. “I applaud Gov. Cox for his leadership on this important issue.”

The symposium included other panel discussions that included First Lady Abby Cox; Dr. Michelle Hofmann, Utah Department of Health and Human Services and Ben Horsley, Granite School District.

The event can be viewed by clicking here. 

Read more:

• Gov. Cox speaks on social media, declining mental and emotional health of students
• Utah social media influencer warns of WiFi baby monitor hack
• Expert provides tips and advice to parents on internet safety

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