Smartphones: Disaster for Today’s Youth

As the world has become increasingly reliant on technology, it is no surprise that the use of mobile phones has become widespread, especially amongst the youth. While it is undeniable that smartphones have improved the way we carry out our everyday lives, continual and prolonged usage of these devices can cause serious adverse health and behavioural effects. This essay will discuss the potential dangers associated with mobile phones, and why they could be seen as a disaster for today’s youth.

Photo by Jonas Leupe on Unsplash

The first and perhaps the most significant danger posed by mobile phones is that of sleep deprivation. Numerous studies have shown that using a mobile device within thirty minutes of bedtime can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle, leading to longer hours of sleep, feeling groggy during the day, and an overall decrease in mental wellbeing. Although mobile phones could allow for longer periods of study and leisure activities, this is offset by the lack of quality sleep.

In addition, mobile phones can cause an increase in anxiety. Social media apps, such as Instagram and Snapchat, allow for people to post their daily lives in a very public fashion. This can create a distorted reality in the minds of users, as they are prompted to curate and idealise the lives that they are leading. As a result, young people can often feel inadequate in comparison to those around them, leading to feelings of depression and low self-worth.

Furthermore, prolonged use of mobile devices can cause physical fatigue, headaches and an overall decrease in the attention span. By using a smartphone for hours on end, individuals are subjected to a form of physical strain that can be very detrimental. Eyestrain, neck, and back pain are all common symptoms that can arise as a result of intensive long-term mobile usage.

Finally, although mobile phones offer many practical benefits, such as staying connected and accessing the internet quickly and easily, there are other factors that can be detrimental to the health and wellbeing of young people. Cyberbullying, exposure to explicit material and addiction to gaming are all potential risks associated with mobile phone use. This can significantly affect the mental state of those involved and lead to feelings of loneliness, insecurity and stress.

Overall, it is evident that mobile phones and technology can have a disastrous effect on the youth. The lack of quality sleep, increased anxiety and physical fatigue, as well as the potential for cyberbullying and exposure to explicit material, all contribute to a damaging culture of mobile phone use. While this technology does provide many practical benefits, it is vital that young people take the time to look after their physical and mental health, by limiting their exposure to such devices.