A recent Tellwut poll sparked a fascinating discussion about social media, online safety, and accountability. One member noted that “Tellwut IS a social media platform, or so I would describe it as being one,” prompting others to weigh in. Responses were mixed: 17% said yes, 31% maybe, and 52% said no. Tellwut member straightouttareno comments "By definition, Tellwut is an official social media site. However I believe the vast majority of Tellwut members only see it as a survey site to answer polls for points and not to interact with other members."

Kids and Social Media: Restrictions and Concerns

Members showed overwhelming support for restricting social media access for children 16 and under, with 86% agreeing that some limitations are necessary. When asked whether age verification—such as uploading government ID—is the best way to enforce restrictions, 42% said yes, 19% said no, and 39% were undecided, highlighting a debate over the best approach to protecting young users.

Tellwut member EvieLove says "Thing is its a very slippery slope on controlling anyone under 16 from using social media. That ultimately should be on the parents monitoring their kids on the internet. Not have big daddy government get even more personal info on people because parents don't wanna parent. Most of the age verification is just more mass surveillance under the guise of. "Think of the children!!" 

Concern over social media’s impact on children is high: 53% are very concerned, 31% somewhat concerned, 8% not very concerned, and 8% not concerned at all. A total of 84% of members express at least some level of worry. Tellwut member nesnaj writes "Might be my impression but seems like kids these days are not as friendly or cooperative as they used to be, a lot less tolerant, more vilolent. I'm a senior so my parents used to say the similar thing about us when I was young. Maybe I'm my parent now too!"

When it comes to regulation, members expressed strong support for government and platform-level action:

• 74% think Canada should ban social media for children under a certain age

• 80% believe social media companies should be legally required to reduce risks to children on their platforms

These results mirror global debates, as governments and regulators consider policies to protect young people online.

Accountability and Identity Online

The poll also explored opinions on anonymity and accountability. Half of respondents (50%) said they would be willing to use their real identity online, while 17% said no and 33% were undecided. Many see transparency as a way to reduce hate, misinformation, and fake accounts, though privacy concerns remain a significant factor. Tellwut member Cineaste comments "Uploading ID's seems a bit invasive to me, No, I am not gonna lay it all out on the net about who I am, and other details. Refuse to do so on some surveys, so wouldn't do on social media if used."

Final Thoughts

From defining what counts as social media to discussing the best ways to protect children and hold users accountable, the Tellwut community is deeply engaged in the conversation about digital spaces. Members’ responses reveal a desire for safer, more responsible online environments—both for younger users and for the community at large.