The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is taking a groundbreaking step in its mission to regulate the internet. In an interview with The Record, Democratic Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya revealed that the FTC plans to hire at least one child psychologist to understand the mental health impacts of children’s online activities. This move comes as part of a wider governmental effort to enhance online protections for youngsters, with new legislation proposed at both federal and state levels. The plan has strong backing from FTC Chair Lina Khan, and the agency aims to implement it by next fall. This decision reflects the FTC’s commitment to evolving and expanding its areas of expertise beyond the confines of traditional regulatory practices.
The addition of a child psychologist to the FTC’s team would be a significant step towards becoming an “expert agency through and through,” as described by Bedoya. Currently, the agency boasts a diverse staff of Ph.D. economists and technologists, but lacks full-time experts in the field of psychology. Bedoya believes that having an in-house psychologist would serve as a valuable resource for commissioners when evaluating allegations of mental health harms. Instead of relying on ad hoc consultants, the presence of a child psychologist within the agency would demonstrate a dedicated commitment to addressing these issues and provide invaluable insights.
Child psychologists would offer a unique perspective when it comes to assessing the impact of social media on mental health. They can bring important insights into determining the causal relationship between online activities and alleged harm. By highlighting the potential connection between specific features, such as dark patterns or deceptive design elements, and their impact on children’s well-being, child psychologists within the FTC could help shape appropriate remedies and damages sought by the agency. They would work alongside investigators, contributing to the evaluation of allegations and the development of strategies and potential rulemaking.
The hiring of child psychologists is part of the FTC’s ongoing efforts to expand its expertise to stay ahead in the ever-changing digital landscape. With the surge in young people’s social media use and its documented mental health risks, it is crucial for the agency to be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the psychology behind these phenomena. While the initial hires are likely to be psychological scientists or social psychologists specializing in research rather than clinical practice, their role within the agency would be an essential component in evaluating the impact of online activities on children and young people.
The FTC’s plan to hire child psychologists marks a significant development in their approach to internet regulation and underscores the growing importance of mental health considerations in online spaces. By adding these experts to their ranks, the agency demonstrates a commitment to thoroughly understanding and addressing the potential harms posed to young users. This move aligns with the broader governmental push for improved online protections and reflects the FTC’s dedication to expanding its expertise beyond traditional legal and economic domains. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the FTC’s decision to invest in child psychologists showcases their determination to stay at the forefront of effective internet regulations.
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