Forward Thinking Birmingham makes contribution to national study into young people’s smartphone use
A member of our Forward Thinking Birmingham (FTB) mental health team has been collaborating on important research to establish whether banning smartphones from schools makes a difference to young people’s wellbeing.
Dr Paul Patterson, FTB’s Deputy Director of Research and Public Mental Health Lead, worked with colleagues from the University of Birmingham on the SMART Schools study, which aims to establish which types of school phone policies are most supportive of pupil mental wellbeing.
The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) funded study took place in 30 secondary schools, with year 8 and year 10 pupils. Researchers compared pupil mental wellbeing in schools that restrict phone use, with schools that permit phone use, for example allowing phones to be used at breaks and lunchtimes. They also measured mental health and behaviours associated with mental wellbeing, such as physical activity, sleep, attainment and classroom behaviour.
Key findings from the research indicate that whether or not a school has a ban in place made no significant difference to the total amount of time smartphones are used by young people over a typical day or week. The study also found further evidence for the overall association that longer times spent on phones and social media were worse for young people’s wellbeing and related behaviours.
It is hoped that this study can be used to inform government policy into smartphone use in schools.
Paul said: “We are delighted that this compelling research with implications for national policy has been published reflecting our ongoing collaboration with excellent academic colleagues at the University of Birmingham.
“The SMART Schools study involves timely research on a theme of genuine concern to parents, carers and educational staff in schools throughout the country and aligns with one of the core aims of Forward Thinking Birmingham - to reduce and prevent mental ill-health in young people across school and community settings. Our involvement with this significant project highlights the vital importance of research in providing robust evidence to inform effective interventions and engagement with our work supporting families and the wider public.”