Everyone, from the governor of Oregon to parents to teachers at South, are telling students that they are addicted to their phones. 

Phone addiction can be caused by many things, most commonly the want to be connected at all times. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the use of devices reinforces dopamine pathways, so when we stop using the device, we experience chemical withdrawals in our brain. Cell phone addiction can look like mood changes, loss of control related to use, and difficulty regulating use. 

Teens all have vastly different experiences online, particularly when it comes to social media. For some, these devices can provide entertainment, connection, and lead to new ideas. For others, they can have a much more negative impact. This contrast originates from the way devices are designed. Phones are designed for quick, brief use throughout the day. Similarly, social media and online games are made to be addictive and to give you a brief dopamine hit. Because of this, it is important for teens to be mindful and in control of their phone, not the other way around.

According to the Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, excessive use of digital devices can increase anxiety and stress, interfere with healthy sleep patterns, and lead to feelings of inadequacy or low self esteem. This is especially concerning for teens, whose brains are still developing, making it more difficult for them to control their use of technology. Beyond the consequences to mental health, excessive use of devices can strain personal relationships, reducing real life interactions and valuable emotional connections. It can also take away from time that could be spent engaging in creative pursuits or physical activity, leading to less balance throughout life. 

To address these issues, the State of Oregon is implementing phone bans across Oregon school districts aimed to improve educational outcomes and mental well being across the state. Research shows that phone bans can accomplish this. In addition, teachers have said that phone bans leave schools feeling more focused and more connected. 

On the other hand, mental health experts involved in addiction treatment, will tell you that motivation for change and involvement in the plan for change are crucial factors in success. This means that to see a positive impact, and decrease in cell phone addiction, the actual students need to have the same motivation for change. According to the National Institutes of Health, “Motivation is a critical element of behavior change that predicts […] reductions in [use]”.

Without student motivation, the ban may not have the same impact, or long-term benefits.

In a New York Times article about student perspectives on the phone ban across the country, it could be seen that while some students are more motivated to decrease their phone use, others are not ready to make that change. Some students noted how teaching students to be responsible and letting them do this independently is important for their development. Others believe that it is important for students to have their phones during non instructional times and lunch, to have an opportunity to relax and reset during their school day. On the other hand, some are excited to see the change and think it will see many benefits. The outcome could depend on student motivation and whether or not students will adapt to this change.

So, are South students motivated to make this change? And will the phone ban truly see all of the benefits it promises, or just take away the phones without solving the problem?

Article by Anna Andrejko