Members of the Mazhilis initiated a large-scale study into the impact of the information environment on minors following a petition against LGBT propaganda in Kazakhstan.
The results showed that more than half of citizens believe such content negatively affects children's mental health, and social networks have become the main source of such information for 63.7% of adolescents. During the study, 1,559 publications of this nature were identified.
Project coordination was undertaken by the "National Fund for the Promotion of Prosperity", which funded the work using its own and raised funds. Organisations and experts who conducted sociological surveys and scientific-legal analysis participated in the study.
PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT ON ADOLESCENTS
Experts note the particular vulnerability of adolescents to external information influence during the formation of self-esteem and value orientations. Those who do not feel support from adults, school, or peers become the most vulnerable.
A representative of the Republican Scientific and Practical Centre for Mental Health, N.B. Yesimov, emphasised that psychological overload of adolescents with ideologised content can provoke increased anxiety, emotional instability, social isolation, and difficulties in self-identification.
Adolescents who regularly consume content on the theme of non-traditional sexual relationships more often experience internal confusion and discomfort regarding their own identity.
SOCIAL NETWORKS AS THE MAIN SOURCE OF INFORMATION
The study showed changes in sources of information. The majority of respondents receive information about the LGBT movement from social networks (63.7%), while traditional media remain secondary (42.6%).
The digital space has a serious influence on shaping adolescents' views. Experts note the high level of digital dependency among adolescents and their vulnerability to unverified information.
Symbolic legitimation of non-traditional sexual relationships through children's cartoons, books, and TV series can undermine an adolescent's sense of stability.
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE AND REGULATORY APPROACHES
The report emphasises the need for a rethinking of approaches to protecting children's rights without limiting freedoms or introducing censorship. The authors drew on the international experience of European countries, where such topics are regulated within the framework of laws on the protection of children's mental health and media literacy.
It is about creating a safe information environment appropriate to the age and psychological characteristics of adolescents. Regulatory efforts should take into account the features of the digital environment, where age filters are absent.
NEXT STEPS
The report has been submitted to the authorised bodies and the Parliament of Kazakhstan. Public discussion is expected to continue within the walls of Parliament in September, with the participation of deputies, the public, activists, parents, teachers, and specialists.
CONCLUSION
The study highlighted the problem of the influence of digital platforms on shaping adolescents' worldviews. The main challenge is to find balanced solutions that preserve freedom of speech and ensure the healthy development of children amidst the growing volume of online content.