A recent German study shows that children and teenagers who spend more time on smartphones tend to have a lower quality of life.
Researchers tracked smartphone use and signs of problematic smartphone use (PSU) from 2018 to 2024 and found that while only a small number meet clinical levels of concern, average symptoms of PSU have risen, especially after 2020.
The study involved children around 14 years old and found that girls showed a bigger increase in problematic smartphone use than boys.
Those with higher PSU scores reported feeling less happy and satisfied with life. The number of kids using smartphones for more than three hours on weekends jumped from 37% in 2018 to 73% in 2024.
The COVID-19 pandemic and other global events may have contributed to these changes by increasing screen time and stress. However, the study cannot say for sure if more smartphone use causes unhappiness or if unhappy kids use phones more.
Experts suggest limiting screen time and encouraging other activities to help improve young people’s well-being. Schools could also teach about healthy phone use to protect mental health.
This research highlights the growing impact of smartphones on children’s lives and the need for balanced habits to support their happiness and development.
Related topics:
- Nearly 1 In 4 U.S. Kids Live With Parents Struggling With Substance Use Disorder
- Controlling Coaches Increase Athlete Stress And Burnout
- How To Know If My Teenager Is Depressed?
