Love your smartphone? vivo study reveals impact of overuse on relationships, says take a break on Dec. 20; know how

tech.hindustantimes.com:

The fifth edition of the vivo Switch Off Research study, titled 'Impact of Smartphones on Parent-Child Relationship,' reveals concerning trends about the strain on familial bonds due to excessive smartphone use. The study, conducted in association with Cybermedia Research (CMR), exposes that 93% of parents feel guilty about their relationships with their children, attributing it to their own smartphone overuse. Additionally, 77% of parents report that their children complain about their excessive smartphone use too.

The findings highlight the impact of smartphones as indispensable tools in our daily lives. Seventy percent of parents acknowledge the significant role of smartphones in enhancing their knowledge about the world, while over 60% consider them invaluable for connecting with family and friends. Similarly, 60% appreciate the convenience smartphones bring to shopping. Children also recognize smartphones as facilitators of knowledge, with nearly 60% agreeing that they are instrumental in acquiring information about the world.

However, the study takes a concerning turn when examining the impact of excessive smartphone use on children's mental health. On average, children initiate smartphone usage at the age of 12, spending approximately 6.5 hours daily, primarily on gaming. Disturbingly, 91% of children admit experiencing anxiety when distanced from their phones, indicating a profound emotional reliance. Moreover, almost 90% are predominantly engrossed in smartphone activities at home, suggesting excessive dependency and raising significant concerns about their psychological and social well-being.

Parents express deep concerns about their children's smartphone usage patterns, with 94% worried about their mental health