Key Highlights
- 77% of parents report that their children express dissatisfaction with their excessive smartphone use
- The study encompasses over 1500 respondents across major Indian cities
- Join Vivo on December 20 to switch off digital screens for an hour
In this digital age, smartphones have integrated into our daily lives, becoming essential companions. However, the widespread and excessive use of these devices has raised concerns about the impact on our most cherished relationships. The fifth edition of the Vivo Switch Off Research study, conducted in collaboration with Cybermedia Research (CMR), delves into the repercussions of excessive smartphone use on parent-child relationships. Let’s have a look. Also Read | Vivo T2 Pro Review: A Feature-Rich Smartphone On A Budget
Survey Findings
Smartphone As An Enabler In Daily Lives
Smartphones serve as crucial tools for information acquisition and social connections among parents. Approximately 70% acknowledge their role in enhancing knowledge, while over 60% value them for connecting with family and friends. Similarly, nearly 60% of children see smartphones as instrumental for acquiring information and connecting with distant loved ones.
Child Mental Health Impact
The study exposes concerning patterns in children’s smartphone usage, revealing that they initiate smartphone use at the age of 12, spending an average of 6.5 hours daily. This extensive engagement raises alarms about emotional reliance, with 91% experiencing anxiety when separated from their devices.
Parents’ Concerns Over Children’s Smartphone Usage
Parents express deep concerns about their children’s mental well-being, social skills, and overall development. A staggering 94% worry about their children’s mental health, with 91% advocating for restrictions on smartphone access. The study emphasizes widespread concerns regarding the potential negative impact on children’s social skills.
Strain On Parent-Child Relationships
The study illuminates a significant challenge in parent-child relationships due to excessive smartphone use. A notable 90% of parents admit to occasional irritation when interrupted by their children engrossed in smartphone activities. Another 90% confess to spending less quality time with their children, potentially straining familial bonds.
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Silver Lining
Despite the challenges, the study unveils a silver lining, with 93% of parents and children expressing feelings of guilt about the quality of their relationships. Notably, 94% of parents prioritize meaningful in-person interactions over smartphone scrolling during leisure time. An encouraging 96% of parents and 93% of children express a strong mutual desire to deepen family connections.
Additional Key Findings
- Parents spend an average of 7.7 hours per day with smartphones, 1.2 hours more than children.
- 87% and 73% of parents check their phones as the first and last thing in the morning and before bedtime.
- On average, children and parents spend about two hours together, but approximately 75% use their phones during this shared time.
- 90% of children feel lonelier due to their parents’ smartphone usage, even with a significant social media presence.
Raising Awareness: ‘Switch Off’ Day
Recognizing the need to sensitize people about responsible technology use, Vivo has declared December 20 as ‘Switch Off’ day. This initiative encourages Indian consumers to power down their digital screens and allocate quality time to their families. Renowned health and science writer Catherine Price, author of ‘How to Break Up with Your Phone,’ has joined hands with Vivo to guide efforts in promoting healthier smartphone habits.
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