AI, algorithms, and social media: How to protect your child from digital harm and advocate for change with Imran Ahmed

Imran Ahmed, founder and CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, joins me to talk about how social media platforms, algorithms, and AI systems are designed and what that means for our children's mental health and safety.

Together we explore:

• How social media algorithms are built to maximize attention, and why emotionally extreme content is often amplified.
• What research reveals about how quickly self-harm and eating disorder content can be served to young users.
• How AI platforms can respond dangerously to vulnerable teens when guardrails are not properly in place.
• Why this is not just a "screen time" issue, but a systemic design and accountability issue.
• The difference between pulling the "emergency brake" and creating meaningful long-term change.
• What parents can realistically do at home to build digital resilience, foster trust, and partner with their children in navigating online spaces.

This episode isn't meant to create more fear, but to offer greater clarity. My hope is that parents walk away feeling informed, empowered, and better equipped to both advocate for safer systems and strengthen the relationship that ultimately protects kids most: the one they have with you.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:

🔗Center for Countering Digital Hate

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

📱IG: @counterhate FB: Center for Countering Digital Hate Youtube: @CCDHate

📱IG: @drsarahbren Youtube: Securely Attached

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES:

💻 Protecting Kids Online - Download the guide for parents

🔗 Deadly by Design: TikTok pushes harmful content promoting eating disorders and self-harm into young users' feeds

🔗 Fake Friend: How ChatGPT betrays vulnerable teens by encouraging dangerous behavior

🔗 Resist and unsubscribe - Scott Galloway

👉 Parenting in the age of AI, algorithms, and constant connectivity can feel like a lot. If you're feeling unsure, reactive, or overwhelmed, Upshur Bren Psychology Group offers therapy and parent coaching to help you feel grounded, clear, and confident as you support your child and manage your own stress. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation or go to upshurbren.com to learn more and find the right support for your family.

CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about secure attachment vs. social media with Dr. Miriam Steele

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the do's and don'ts for introducing screens to your toddler

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about teaching kids healthy tech habits free of guilt or power struggles with Ash Brandin

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about the hidden dangers of EdTech with Andy Liddell

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about rewiring the way our kids interact with screens with Alé Duarte