YouTube is to limit recommendations of certain health and fitness videos to teenagers, including those which “idealise” certain body types.
It says 13 to 17-year-old users will still be able to search for and view fitness-related content – but will not be encouraged into repeated viewing of similar videos.
YouTube says it is acting because of concerns that repeated exposure to such material can lead young people to develop “negative beliefs” about themselves.
Experts have welcome the measure but say it needs to be accompanied by a “broader discussion” about fitness and health for young people.
YouTube’s algorithm will usually recommend similar content for users to watch once they have finished a particular video, as well as displaying related videos on a sidebar.
The platform says this will no longer be offered for teens when they view certain types of content, including:
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videos that compare physical features and idealises some types over others
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videos idealising specific fitness levels or body weights
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videos displaying social aggression in the form of non-contact fights and intimidation
