Smartphones and teens: A deadly dilemma

I’m not big on social media. Not really fond of smartphones, either.

I think they’ve destroyed family time and good conversation. However, I realize in today’s society they are a necessary evil.

But at what age do they become necessary?

A recent study by the American Psychiatric Association states that the number of teens with clinical level depression doubled between 2011 and 2020.

The teen suicide rate nearly doubled between 2007 and 2019.

Even more shocking, the study revealed the suicide rate of 10 to 14 year olds tripled overall, and nearly quadrupled for girls.

Let’s see how this ties into smartphones.

In 2009, only about half of teens used social media every day, but by 2012, three out of four did. I don’t think that’s the sole reason for teen depression, but there has to be some effect from that.

Smartphones and social media completely changed the culture of our youth.

Instead of hanging out, driving around, and going to parties, a majority of our teens are now on Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram.

Social media has kicked bullying up to an extreme level that teens can’t escape from, unless of course they stop using it.

That’s not going to happen.

Smartphones and the heavy use of social media isn’t going anywhere, that’s a fact.

So, my question is, at what age should a child be given a smartphone?

Is it 12, 16, 18?

And should there be restrictions to certain sites and platforms?

It’s a controversial subject but one that needs to be addressed.

If not, the days of pickup basketball games, and riding bikes, will be replaced by isolation, video games, and watching videos on TikTok.

Something to think about.

See you out there.