Psychologists from the University of York conducted a study for Channel 4’s new documentary, Swiped: The School that Banned Smartphones. The experiment at The Stanway School in Colchester involved Year 8 students giving up their smartphones for 21 days. Results showed positive impacts on sleep and mood, with students falling asleep faster and experiencing improved well-being. However, cognitive abilities did not significantly improve during the study period. The findings come at a crucial time as governments consider smartphone policies for young people. The documentary airs this week, offering valuable insights into the effects of smartphone bans on children.
https://www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/2024/research/school-smartphone-ban-better-sleep/