The number of school districts considering bans on cell phones during school hours is increasing across the United States. At present, eight states have already implemented bans on smartphones in public school classrooms. In New York, a proposed “bell-to-bell” ban is set to be brought before the State Legislature for a vote. In addition, 27 states are contemplating restrictions on student smartphone usage, with other states exploring various ways to limit cell phone use.
Some advocate for these bans, arguing that students’ attention should be fully engaged with classroom lessons. Meanwhile, parents express concern about maintaining the ability to contact their children in emergencies.
Matthew Mulvaney, an associate professor and department chair at the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, observes the effects of cell phone use on children both as a researcher and as the parent of a 14-year-old. “I’ve always been interested in this field and this research of looking at mobile technology and how it might impact kids, especially now with my daughter being immersed in the world of cell phones and social media,” he states.
Sabrina Butler, an assistant teaching professor in the School of Education and a licensed mental health counselor, examines process addictions, such as cell phone use, among children and adolescents. Butler acknowledges both sides of the debate and suggests ways to address it. She notes, “Parents have a legitimate concern about the safety of their child, and it would be difficult to enforce no cell phones in schools… We can’t just take technology completely out of the classroom.”
In a discussion with SU News, Mulvaney and Butler shared their views on the subject. Butler, from a harm reduction perspective, advocates for setting boundaries on cell phone use, drawing parallels between mobile technology and other forms of addiction. Mulvaney points out that children managed without cell phones for many years and believes that growing concerns among parents reflect changes they observe in their children. He refers to research by Jean Twenge highlighting the correlation between cell phone use and mental health issues in young adolescents.
Both experts discuss the concept of process addiction, with Butler explaining how cell phone and social media use can become problematic by exploiting brain mechanisms similar to those in other addictions. The dialog also covers the appropriate age for introducing children to cell phones and social media, with Mulvaney suggesting delayed exposure until 16, based on studies by Jonathan Haidt.
In terms of reducing the addictive impact of cell phones, Mulvaney draws comparisons to the decline of adolescent smoking, advocating for collective understanding and action. He envisions schools adopting phone-free policies during school hours. Butler emphasizes setting limits, such as parental controls and lifestyle practices that encourage real-world interaction.
For interviews or further information, contact Chris Munoz, the Media Relations Specialist, at cjmunoz@syr.edu.
