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The ubiquitous presence of mobile phones in our lives has brought convenience and connectivity, but a recent study underscores the dark side of this digital dependency, particularly among schoolgoing children. Published in the International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, the study sheds light on the physical, mental, and social harms inflicted by mobile phone addiction on adolescents, with notable differences observed between government and private school attendees.
Conducted by researchers from Delhi’s Kalawati Saran Children Hospital, the study analyzed 500 adolescents, divided equally between government and private schools in the capital. The findings highlighted disparities in the physical and psychological hazards associated with mobile phone addiction across different school types.
While both genders showed no significant difference in physical hazards, psychological risks varied between government and private school students. The widespread availability of affordable phones, coupled with the surge in mobile phone usage during the Covid-19 pandemic, has exacerbated the issue, according to health experts.
Dr. Poonam Sidana, Director of Neonatology & Paediatrics at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, expressed concern over the diminishing social interactions among children, particularly in private schools, where increased online studying and exposure to global events have intensified phone usage.
Prolonged mobile phone use among adolescents has been linked to various physical health issues, including back pain, disrupted sleep patterns, and a sedentary lifestyle, predisposing individuals to obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and cancers. Moreover, psychological ramifications such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social isolation are prevalent among younger generations grappling with mobile phone addiction.
Dr. Rahul Nagpal, Principal Director of Paediatrics & Neonatology at Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, emphasized the role of peer pressure in driving excessive phone use among adolescents, citing the allure of social media apps and the fear of missing out (FOMO) as contributing factors.
Studies have also highlighted the adverse impact of mobile phone addiction on academic performance, concentration, and productivity. Adolescents immersed in social media are particularly vulnerable to cyberbullying, online harassment, and interactions with online predators.
To address these challenges, experts stress the importance of educating parents about the harmful effects of mobile phone use and empowering them with tools for monitoring online activities. Dr. Poonam advocated for digital literacy to be integrated into school curricula, equipping children with the skills to navigate technology safely while prioritizing real-life interactions.
Parental supervision and guidance play a crucial role in mitigating adolescents’ mobile phone addiction, underscoring the need for collective efforts from families, schools, and authorities to safeguard children from the perils of excessive screen time.
As the prevalence of mobile phones continues to rise, prioritizing children’s well-being and fostering a healthy relationship with technology are imperative in nurturing a generation equipped to thrive in the digital age.
