This Common Phone Habit Among Teens Is Increasing Anxiety In Teens (Image Credits: iStock)
In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere—on desks, in hands, and even tucked into school bags. While technology can be a powerful tool for learning and connection, an alarming trend is emerging among teens: screen addiction. Most parents are already worried about their children's growing dependence on phones, tablets, and TVs, but recent research adds more weight to those concerns.
A new study led by Emma Duerden at Western University in Canada has found that teens who spend more than two hours a day on screens during weekdays are at a higher risk of developing anxiety and behavioural problems. Even more surprising, the impact was seen even in teens who had no prior symptoms of anxiety—suggesting that screen use alone can be a trigger.
It’s Not Just the Time, It’s How They Use It
Published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, the study analysed the screen habits of 580 adolescents aged 12 to 17. Researchers discovered that the type of screen activity played a bigger role than the duration. Passive social media use—such as scrolling through posts without commenting or engaging—was found to have a stronger link to mental health issues than interactive use or educational screen time.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, many teens turned to social media as a way to combat loneliness and isolation. However, those habits didn't disappear after the world reopened. In fact, many teens continue to spend large portions of their day immersed in the digital world.
The Rise of Doomscrolling
One behaviour the study highlighted is “doomscrolling”—endlessly scrolling through social media or news content without any active engagement. This habit can subtly take a toll on teens’ mental well-being. The curated nature of online content leads to constant social comparisons, making teens feel like they aren’t good enough or that their lives are lacking.
“Teens can spend up to 15 hours a day on screens,” says Duerden. “They wake up and immediately reach for their phone, and that pattern continues throughout the day.” She adds that breaking this cycle is crucial for mental and emotional well-being.
Tips to Reduce Screen Addiction in Teens
Set Screen Time Limits: Use parental controls or screen time apps to cap daily usage. Aim for no more than two hours of recreational screen time on weekdays.
Encourage Digital Downtime: Create screen-free zones at home, like during dinner or an hour before bedtime.
Promote Real-World Activities: Get teens involved in sports, hobbies, or volunteering to reduce dependence on screens.
Lead by Example: Children often mimic adult behaviour. Limiting your own screen time can inspire teens to follow suit.
Talk About Content: Discuss the difference between healthy and harmful screen use. Teach teens to recognise when content is making them feel anxious or inadequate.
Encourage Social Interaction Offline: Face-to-face conversations and time with friends or family in real life can help balance online exposure.
Support School Cell Phone Policies: Back initiatives like mobile phone bans in classrooms to minimise distraction and improve focus.
Ultimately, screens are here to stay. But by guiding teens on how to use them wisely, parents can help prevent anxiety, low self-esteem, and other emotional struggles from creeping in. As Duerden rightly says, “Getting outside and being part of the real world is just as important as any app we use.”
