The Attention Economy: Monopolizing Kids’ Time Online

This virtual workshop will consider the use of design features that keep kids, including teens, online longer and coming back more frequently.

Researchers, technologists, child development and legal experts, consumer advocates, and industry professionals will discuss design features that keep kids engaged on digital platforms like websites, apps, and interactive online services. Participants will hear from experts about the potential impacts of those features on the well-being of younger users, as well as how platforms might factor these impacts into such design features.

Panels will cover topics including:

• Whether and how certain design features result in more engagement or time spent on digital platforms, and what relevant scientific research exists;
• The resulting physical and psychological impacts, both positive and negative, on youth well-being; and
• What measures or design considerations related to youth well-being might be effective, feasible, and consistent with the current legal landscape.

The virtual event will be open to the public. Bookmark the event page and keep reading the Business Blog for agenda updates and the event link on February 25.

The FTC is seeking input: if you’re interested in participating as panelists at the event or have expertise and relevant information on any of the topics listed above, email AttentionEconomy@ftc.gov by November 15, 2024. Please don’t send substantive comments to the FTC email address listed above right now. Any formal comment period will be announced on the event page.