Academic Warns Against Blanket Smartphone Bans for Teens

A leading academic, Dr. Amy Orben from the University of Cambridge, has cautioned against blanket bans on smartphone use among teenagers, labeling them “unrealistic and potentially detrimental,” The Guardian reported. Appointed by the UK government to review the impact of smartphones on youth, Orben’s insights come amid increasing public pressure for stricter regulations.

In a paper published in the British Medical Journal, Orben and her co-authors argue that while there are concerns about smartphones’ effects on health, well-being, and academic performance, there are no simple solutions. They noted that bans could undermine children’s rights to technology education and access, which are essential for their development.

The current UK government, while enforcing the Online Safety Act, has resisted further restrictions, despite some MPs advocating for limits on social media access for under-16s and smartphone bans in schools. Orben emphasized the need for balanced approaches, including technology-free spaces and improved digital literacy.

The discussion around smartphone regulations has intensified following the release of the Netflix drama Adolescence, which highlights the dangers of online content. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is reviewing existing guidelines on smartphone use in schools, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer has acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating there is no single solution to address potential harms.