As the UK government launches an in-depth review of school smartphone bans, concerns over the impact of social media on teenagers continue to grow. Can stricter measures really make a difference?
The UK government is set to launch an in-depth review of school smartphone bans, following growing pressure from MPs and the public on the impact of social media on teenagers.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson will be monitoring a group of schools to assess the effectiveness of guidance that prohibits the use of mobile phones throughout the school day.
The government’s guidance states that all schools should prohibit the use of mobile phones, but it does not specify how schools should enforce these bans.
A lack of monitoring has led to frustration among some MPs, who argue that the current system is not being followed effectively.
Research has shown that school phone bans do not necessarily improve grades or wellbeing.
However, there is a growing consensus that stricter measures are needed to address the impact of social media on teenagers.
A recent Ipsos poll found that almost half the UK public believe there should be a total ban on smartphones in schools.
The shadow education secretary, Laura Trott, has called for an end to phone use in schools, citing the lack of effectiveness of the current guidance.
The Conservative government has proposed amendments to the schools bill, including a full ban on smartphones in schools, but these were voted down by the government.
The Labour Party is taking a firm stance on this issue, with some MPs calling for further restrictions on social media use among young people.
“The impact of social media on teenagers is a growing concern that requires urgent attention”, said one MP.
The party’s commitment to addressing the impact of social media on teenagers reflects growing concerns about the mental health effects of excessive screen time and online activity.
A recent poll found that almost half the UK public believe there should be a total ban on smartphones in schools.
Social media has become an integral part of a teenager's life, with most spending several hours daily on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Research suggests that excessive social media use can lead to decreased attention span, increased risk of depression, and lower self-esteem.
According to a study by the American Psychological Association, 60% of teenagers experience online harassment, which can have severe emotional consequences.
Furthermore, social media's curated content can create unrealistic expectations and promote consumerism among young users.
Bridget Phillipson is a British Labour Party politician serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Houghton and Sunderland South since 2019.
She was born on March 1, 1980, in Durham, England.
Prior to her political career, Phillipson worked as a teacher and trade union official.
In Parliament, she has focused on issues related to education, employment, and social justice.
