Mobile Phones
Nearly a quarter of teenagers show signs of being addicted to smartphones in ways that could threaten their mental health. Research by Kings College London found links between phone usage, depression, anxiety, stress and poor sleep quality.
The research found that phone usage could be making students less curious, less able to finish tasks, less emotionally stable and lowering their self-control.
24 Hour Communication
Smart phones have access to the internet and apps which can endanger a students safety, increasing the risk of harm through prolonged phone usage.
Social media encourages 24 hour communication and many teenagers are experiencing poor sleep patterns through interaction at night. This increases their risk of danger and also impacts their mental health, mood and focus in the day.
Sharing Photos and Videos
It is important students understand appropriate use of a phones camera and video. Sharing images or videos can be detrimental on mental health and also increase their chances of harm from strangers.
Resources
If you have any queries or would like advice, please contact the school.
Relate: ‘My teenager is always on their phone.’
https://www.relate.org.uk/relationship-help/help-family-life-and-parenting/parenting-teenagers/communicating-teens/my-teenager-always-their-phone
The Guardian: ‘Teenagers’ sleep quality and mental health at risk over late-night mobile phone use’
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2017/may/30/teenagers-sleep-quality-and-mental-health-at-risk-over-late-night-mobile-phone-use
UK Safer Internet Centre: Smart Phone advice for Parents
https://www.saferinternet.org.uk/advice-centre/parents-and-carers/parents-guide-technology/smartphones
Mumsnet: ‘How can parents deal with sexting?’
https://www.mumsnet.com/teenagers/sexting-advice-for-parents