Airing on Channel 9 on Sunday, May 26, at 8:30 p.m., 60 Minutes Australia presents two compelling reports from Adam Hegarty and Tara Brown.
“Messing with Minds” looks into the controversial topic of social media and its effect on young minds. World-renowned U.S. psychologist Professor Jonathan Haidt and other leading researchers sound the alarm about the serious risks associated with social media use among young people. They argue that it is not just a matter of excessive screen time but a public health issue, with social media platforms posing a significant threat to the mental health of a generation.
The episode investigates the role of tech giants and their responsibility in addressing these concerns, especially considering the profits they generate from children’s engagement with their platforms. The report by Adam Hegarty examines the growing calls for drastic measures, such as banning social media for younger users.
In the second report, titled “Death in Byron,” Tara Brown investigates the mysterious death of 25-year-old Jackson Stacker, whose body was found in Byron Bay in July 2021. Stacker led a nomadic life, sleeping in his van and embracing the unpredictability of each new day.
His death was ruled a likely suicide by police, but his family believes there may be more to the story. The discovery of his body, with his skull found 13 meters away and a 30-centimeter hunting knife embedded in his chest, raises questions and concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death.
60 Minutes Australia, airing on Channel 9 and 9Now on Sunday, May 26, at 8:30 p.m.
