There is growing evidence that clearly indicates that smartphone and social media use is having a significantly detrimental impact on the wellbeing of children and young people, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression and low self–esteem, as well as disrupted sleep patterns.
Furthermore, studies have shown that a smartphone–free school environment can enhance students’ focus, reduce cyberbullying, and improve overall academic performance. Of course, students can still use laptops to access social media outside of school and via smartwatches.
However, I want to be clear that it is the nexus of smartphones and social media that is especially damaging to young people, and which is, I believe, a significant public health issue.
Below is a link to a presentation I recently shared with Oxley families.
