Experiment Reveals Benefits of Smartphone Ban for Schoolchildren

A Channel 4 documentary followed students at an Essex school who gave up smartphones for 21 days, showing reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and renewed social interactions.

The Stanway School in Colchester partnered with researchers from the University of York for a 21-day study on the effects of a smartphone ban on Year 8 students.
Students reported improved mental health, including a 17% drop in anxiety symptoms, better sleep, and enhanced focus in school during the experiment.
Parents and teachers observed significant behavioral changes, with children engaging more in conversations, outdoor play, and family activities.
The documentary highlighted the darker side of smartphone use, including exposure to harmful content and its potential links to mental health struggles in children.
The study has reignited discussions about the impact of smartphones on young people, with some experts suggesting a nationwide ban for children under 14.