Journal of Iranian Cultural Research

Journal of Iranian Cultural Research

Child digital communication: Global patterns in age-appropriate design of social platforms for children and adolescents

Document Type : Scientific Research Manuscript

Authors
1 Professor of Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences and Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2 Professor, Department of Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3 Associate Professor, Department of Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
4 PhD Candidate, Department of Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The rapid expansion of digital technologies and social platforms has made the design of age-appropriate online environments for children and adolescents a global concern. While many approaches emphasize digital risks and potential harms, this study adopts a multidimensional, opportunity-oriented, and risk-mitigating perspective to examine age-appropriate design. Using a qualitative methodology based on interviews and participant observation, the study explores the beliefs, behaviors, views, and preferences of twelve Iranian child and adolescent users. It also categorizes prominent global and local models of age-appropriate design, focusing on the experiences of the United Kingdom and Russia. The analysis identified five key themes: “Accelerated Accessibility,” “Digital Negligence,” “Overestimated Online Safety,” “Anthropomorphizing Technology: The Trusted Omniscient,” and “Childhood Foundations, Mature Preferences.” These themes highlight the need to redesign digital environments according to children’s developmental needs and lived experiences. The study further identifies three major models of age-appropriate design: “Designing Dedicated Platforms,” “Optimizing Local Platforms,” and “Developing Strict Regulations and Regulatory Policies.” The findings suggest that child-centered digital governance requires integrating protection, innovation, and design strategies responsive to young users’ experiences.
Keywords
Subjects

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 14 July 2026

  • Receive Date 30 January 2026
  • Revise Date 10 May 2026
  • Accept Date 29 April 2026