The Overwhelming Impact of Phone Notifications on Teens

A study conducted by Common Sense Media reveals that 97% of kids aged 11 to 17 use their smartphones during school hours, with some spending up to 16 hours a day on their devices. The research found that teens check their phones frequently, ranging from two to 498 times per day, and spend a median of 4.5 hours daily on their phones. Social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat dominate screen time, followed by YouTube and gaming. The study also highlights concerns about age-inappropriate content, with 68% of participants under age 13 using social media and apps with mature ratings. Experts warn of the negative impact on interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities, as well as the potential dangers of online interactions. Parents are advised to delay phone access for as long as possible and monitor content accessed by their children.