Smartphone addiction in children continues to be a major problem among children in India. Vivo recently conducted a study with Cybermedia Research (CMR), which sheds light on the far-reaching consequences of excessive smartphone use on parent-child relationships
In today’s digital age, smartphones have seamlessly integrated into every aspect of our daily lives. However, smartphones are ruining the way children are raised.
The widespread use of smartphones and similar devices is now casting a shadow on the relationship children have with their parents.
The latest research, the fifth edition of Vivo Switch Off Research conducted in collaboration with Cybermedia Research (CMR), sheds light on the far-reaching consequences of excessive smartphone use on parent-child relationships.
The research, encompassing over 1,500 respondents across major Indian cities, has also enlisted the expertise of Catherine Price, a renowned health and science writer and author of ‘How to Break Up with your Phone – The 30-Day Plan to Take Back Your Life.’
Key findings
The comprehensive study, titled ‘Impact of Smartphones on Parent-Child Relationship,’ exposes alarming trends. While 70 per cent of parents view smartphones as information hubs and social connectors, and 60 per cent appreciate them for family connections and shopping convenience, a darker side emerges in the usage patterns of children.
On average, children begin using smartphones at the age of 12, spending approximately 6.5 hours daily, primarily on gaming. A concerning 91 per cent of children admit to feeling anxiety when separated from their devices, indicating an emotional dependency. Furthermore, almost 90 per cent are engrossed in phone activities at home, raising concerns about addiction and its impact on their well-being.
The findings also reveal parental apprehensions. A staggering 94 per cent of parents express worry about their children’s mental health due to excessive phone use, with 91 per cent advocating for restrictions.
Concerns extend to social skills and overall development, with 91 per cent fearing adverse effects.
The strain on relationships is evident, with 90 per cent of parents feeling irritated when interrupted by phone-distracted children, leading to diminished quality time and increased loneliness for the children.
Children do what they see their parents do
Shockingly, 75 per cent of parents engage with phones during their shared two-hour time with children, raising questions about the quality of interaction.
Key findings highlight the tensions in smartphone usage: Parents spend 7.7 hours daily on smartphones, 1.2 hours more than their children.
Additionally, 87 per cent and 73 per cent of parents check their phones first and last thing, mirroring similar patterns observed in children. Despite spending just two hours together, 75 per cent admit to phone use, contributing to mutual guilt over relationship quality.
