The Anxious Generation: Phones and Their Effects on Adolescents

By: Madelyn D. ‘25

Schools across the United States including Bryn Mawr have implemented a phone ban in an attempt to decrease the rising number of mental disorder diagnoses in adolescents. Whether or not enforcing a phone ban will address the issues that arise has been a subject of debate. New York University professor of ethical leadership Jonathan Haidt argues in his book, The Anxious Generation, that smartphones increase anxiety and depression in Gen Z due to the generation's “continuous access” to the internet. According to the National Institute of Health, in the United States, around 20% of children ages 3-17 have “a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder, and suicidal behaviors” and these numbers have increased among high school students “more than 40% in the decade before 2019.” The statistics indicate that the increased use of technology has changed adolescent moods enough to affect or cause mood disorders. This leads to the question: Has the number of mental disorders increased or have we gotten better at diagnosing them? 

A study published in JAMA Network Open looked at how stigma towards mental health has changed from 1996 to 2018. From 2006 to 2018 there was a significant drop in social rejection towards those diagnosed with depression. In reference to stigma, Professor of Sociology at Indiana University Bloomington Bernice Pescosolido stated that it translates into issues such as “people’s reluctance to seek care, our shortage of mental health professionals, and the U.S.’ unwillingness to invest resources into the mental health sector.” With less stigma, there is an increase in the facilities that can not only assist mental disorders but also diagnose them. While the reduction of mental health stigma may have contributed to the increase in mental illness diagnoses among adolescents, statistics such as those provided by the National Institute of Health suggest that phones may still play a role. An independent source for polling and research, KFF stated that studies on the results of phone bans in schools are mixed with some “suggesting improvements in student mental health and academic performance and a reduction in bullying, and others showing little to no change.”

While limiting phone use may be one way to improve mental health, Bryn Mawr also offers numerous resources both virtually and in-person. The BMS virtual counseling lounge offers tools in stress management, wellness groups and resources, and wellness exercises. Additionally, resources such as Ms. Evans and Ms. Timlen are available so do not hesitate to stop by their office or set a meeting.