Introduction
The development of technology and the evolution of mobile phones have revolutionized the world. Nowadays, people use smartphones for a variety of tasks other than calling or exchanging messages with a friend. In particular, teenagers and children have become active phone users over the recent decade. Technology enables communication, provides access to the internet and social media, as well as offers entertainment and gaming applications. At the same time, a widespread belief is that too much screen time contributes to high rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents (Popper). This essay aims to discuss the connection between phones and teenagers’ mental health and explain why the use of smartphones is merely a reflection of problems that children would face either way.
Main body
Generally, there are two sides to the phone use argument. Some people believe that screen time causes anxiety, depression, stress, and mental problems in teenagers. As a result, many parents treat technologies with fear and suspicion since they are worried about the negative effect on their children. Others see no apparent connection between smartphone use and adolescents’ health issues. Parents supporting this belief consider the positive opportunities that phones offer for communication, learning, and development. Personally, I agree with the idea that smartphones do not cause high anxiety and depression rates in children; however, they might aggravate the existing problems. According to Popper, excessive screen time can affect such vulnerable groups as adolescents with mental health problems. It is essential to control the time spent on the phone and include other activities in the daily routine. Balance is vital for teenagers and children, as well as adults, in this regard.
However, I agree with the statement that there are broader and more urgent problems associated with depression and anxiety in adolescents. For instance, the stress related to studies, future choices, student loans, and other important matters can add to sleep deprivation in a more significant way than phone use. Similarly, there are numerous social problems that contribute to the mental burden of teenagers, including climate change, discrimination, inequalities, and other issues. In this regard, the use of phones as a means of communication and a source of knowledge and valuable information can support children in their worries. It is essential to prioritize major challenges instead of supporting beliefs that are not evidence-based.
In this regard, there is a case study in the article presented in this module that appeals most to me. In particular, the article mentions the debate over the harmful effect of phones which is supported by many parents. My family is sometimes worried about the amount of my screen time as well. However, I must mention that I view my smartphone as a valuable source of information, data, and useful functions. For instance, I can research various subjects and reach out to other people via social media. It is challenging to balance screen time, but I have not noticed anxiety or depression signs caused by the device itself. Instead, there are other real-world issues that contribute to my worries, irrespective of phone use.
Summary
To summarize, there are two opposing opinions with regard to the effect of phone use on children and teenagers. It can be concluded that there is a widespread belief supporting the idea that the real cause of anxiety and depression in the youth is found outside smartphones. Indeed, real-life problems can be more alarming than the use of technology, requiring more attention. At the same time, balance is still important, and screen time should be limited.
Work Cited
Popper, Nathaniel. “Panicking About Your Kids’ Phones? New Research Says Don’t.” The New York Times, 2020, Web.