Seeing teens standing together, but totally ignoring each other is a common sight these days. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 78% teens aged between 12 and 17 have mobile phones. And they are not just using it to call their parents. One in four teens have access to the internet, far more than adults. So is cell phone really a good thing for teens? What are the negative effects of cell phones on teenagers? Read on to find the answer.
There is no doubt that the mobile phone is a very useful tool and today, mobile phones are a major part of society. It eases communication with colleagues, friends and relatives. But every technology that provides such benefits comes with a consequent price. The impact of mobile phones on youth and society is astronomical. It is this area that requires attention, when you are giving your teen a cell phone. Here’s how cell phones affect teenagers.
Teen Tendonitis (TTT): What is the impact of mobile phones on young people’s social life? Teenagers are totally addicted to texting. Excess messaging can lead to Teen Tendonitis (TTT). It can cause pain in the hands, back and neck due to poor posture. It can also lead to impaired vision and even arthritis down the line.
Stress: Having a cell phone will tempt your teen to spend all day talking or texting, instead of doing anything productive. Studies have proven that teens who spend too much of their time with their cell phones are more prone to stress and fatigue. It can also lead to psychological disorders in some cases.
Sleep Loss: Most of the teens keep their cell phones nearby while sleeping to respond to texts and calls. They feel pressurized to remain reachable around the clock. It leads to sleep interruption and disruption. Teens also become irritable when they are sleep deprived.
Accidents: Teens are more likely to respond to calls, text while driving, and riding than adults. They talk and text on the phone without realizing that it can cost their lives. Even the U.S. Government Website for Distracted Driving has proven that traffic crashes are the leading cause of death in teens.
Increases anxiety: Relying on texting as a primary mode of communication can increase anxiety in teens. Texting is instantly gratifying, but it also produces anxiety. The instant reply by the friend can bring joy and elation. But in case of delayed response or no response, this same pleasure turns into disappointment.
Risk of cancer: Research shows that electromagnetic radiation emitted by mobile phones get absorbed in the tissues when we hold the phone for longer times. The nervous systems of teens are still developing and have a greater risk of developing brain cancer from cell phones than adults.
Cyber bullying: According to a poll conducted by Fight Crime Invest in Kids, nearly one-third of the teens are victims of cyber bullying. And almost half of the victims do not know the identity of the perpetrators.
Culled from: momjunction.com
