Editorial Standards

How Little Dopes researches, writes and updates its guidance

Little Dopes helps parents and caregivers understand children's digital lives. We translate research, platform changes and online-safety guidance into practical, age-aware actions families can use. We are a research-informed parent publication, not a medical, psychological or legal service.

OUR EDITORIAL PRINCIPLES

Evidence before alarm

We prioritise reliable evidence over headlines or fear. We aim to describe both what research suggests and what it cannot establish.

Primary sources first

Where possible, we link directly to peer-reviewed research, government agencies, recognised professional bodies and original platform documentation. Secondary reporting may provide context but should not replace the underlying source.

Clear separation of evidence and interpretation

We distinguish study findings from Little Dopes' interpretation and practical suggestions. Associations are not described as proof of causation.

Useful context

Statistics are presented with their source, publication date, population and important limitations whenever these are available. Advice is framed for the relevant age group and family context.

Proportionate language

We avoid diagnosing children or labelling ordinary behaviour as addiction without appropriate clinical evidence. Terms such as risk, association, dependence and disorder are used carefully.

HOW CONTENT IS PRODUCED

Topics are chosen because they answer real questions parents are asking about screen use, social media, gaming, AI, online safety and family technology habits.

For research reviews and evidence-based guides, we:

• identify the question the article should answer;

• look first for recent primary research and authoritative guidance;

• compare findings rather than relying on a single statistic;

• note uncertainty, limitations and meaningful disagreement;

• translate the evidence into practical parent actions; and

• link readers to the original sources.

AUTHORSHIP AND REVIEW

Articles identify their author and publication date. Christopher McCallum is the publisher and principal author of Little Dopes. Where a qualified external expert reviews or contributes to an article, that person's name, role and contribution will be stated on the article.

Little Dopes does not imply clinical review where none has occurred. Personal parenting experience may help frame a topic, but it is not presented as scientific evidence.

AI USE

AI tools may assist with research organisation, transcription, drafting or editing. They are not treated as factual authorities. Sources, statistics and substantive claims should be checked against the linked original material before publication. Editorial responsibility remains with the named human author.

CORRECTIONS AND UPDATES

Digital platforms and research change quickly. Articles may be updated when:

• new research materially changes the evidence;

• a platform changes its features, policies or safety controls;

• a source link or statistic becomes outdated; or

• a factual, contextual or wording error is identified.

Material updates should be reflected in the article's updated date. Corrections that change the meaning of an article should be noted transparently.

Readers can report a possible error through the Contact page. We review credible correction requests and update the article where warranted.

HEALTH AND SAFETY DISCLAIMER

Little Dopes provides general educational information. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified health, mental-health, education or legal professional. Parents concerned about a child's safety, development or wellbeing should seek appropriate professional support. In an emergency, contact local emergency services.

COMMERCIAL INDEPENDENCE

Recommendations and conclusions should not be influenced by undisclosed payment. Sponsored content, affiliate relationships, supplied products or other material conflicts will be disclosed clearly on the relevant page.

Last reviewed: 16 August 2026