The narrative often pushed in the media and popular parent culture paints a grim picture of technology, especially phone use, suggesting that smartphones are inherently toxic, leading to negative mood changes and mental health issues among teens – in fact, there is a very popular book that pushes the narrative that technology is causing an “epidemic of mental health” with our kids. (1) However, a recent study utilizing a method called ecological momentary assessment (EMA) provides a more nuanced perspective that pushes against this toxic narrative that parents should consider. (2)
Ecological momentary assessment is a research technique that involves collecting data multiple times throughout the day in real-world settings. Instead of relying on participants to recall their phone usage and mood retrospectively, which can be inaccurate, EMA captures real-time data. This method involves participants completing many short surveys per day, providing insights into their activities, emotions, and interactions as they occur.
The study offers valuable insights into the relationship between teens’ phone use and their mood. By collecting data at various points throughout the day, researchers could pinpoint specific times when phone use occurred and the subsequent mood changes. Here are some key findings:
- The study found that the timing of phone use plays a crucial role in its impact on mood. For instance, using a phone to connect with friends after a stressful day at school can positively affect a teen’s mood, providing social support and relaxation. Conversely, using a phone late at night when teens should be sleeping can lead to increased stress and mood disturbances.
- The context in which phone use occurs also significantly influences its impact. Engaging in meaningful and supportive conversations with friends or family can boost mood and provide a sense of connection. On the other hand, exposure to negative content or cyberbullying can have detrimental effects.
- The findings challenge the blanket notion that phones are toxic. Instead, they highlight the importance of understanding the specific circumstances under which phone use is beneficial or harmful. This nuanced view allows parents to guide their teens toward healthier phone habits.
This study sheds light on the complexities of teens’ phone use and its impact on mood. By understanding the timing and context of phone use, parents can better support their teens in developing healthy digital habits. Remember, it’s not all bad, smartphones can be a valuable tool for connection and support when used mindfully. As stated in the conclusion of this study:
“this study found that adolescents report better moods when using their phones and report mood improvements during phone use. These findings are among the first to demonstrate that smartphones have reliable, short-term associations with adolescent mood. The observation that these associations is positive implies that adolescents might use smartphones for the purpose of mood management or mood modification.”
In our opinion, this study offers yet another researched counterpoint to the prevailing narrative that phones are toxic to teens – it’s not all bad for most teens! This is why we love psychologist and researcher Dr. Pete Etchells statement that we believe is extremely relevant to this study: (3)
“So instead of asking, does social media use cause mental health issues? perhaps a better question might be: why do some people prosper online while others get into real difficulty?”
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Feelings, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Technology vs No Technology!
References:
2/ https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0298422
