The new generation in the all-consuming grip of mobile phones

With technological innovation accelerating communication via mobile phones, the influence of mobile phones in entertainment and connectivity is simplifying life on one hand and fostering addiction among children, teenagers, and people of all ages on the other. The mobile phone–centered digital platforms have become a major part of their lives.
 

Its impact is evident everywhere in studies, socialization, entertainment, and workplaces. This has increased loneliness and psychological stress. Thus, mobile phones’ all‑consuming grip defines a new generation. Meanwhile, the rapid popularity and profit potential of communication mediums built around smart devices compel many young people into ethical compromises.
 

Currently, the effect is visible on children, teens, youth, and even older people. According to data from Netherlands‑based research platform ScienceDirect.com, 26.99% of people globally are addicted to mobile phones, of which 14.22% are addicted to the internet. Meanwhile, a survey by the Aanchal Foundation in Bangladesh found that 51% of students feel addicted to internet use. Another survey by the Government’s Digital Security Agency reveals that around 30 million people in Bangladesh are active daily on Facebook; among them, 1.2 million youth regularly create content and try to monetize it. But a large portion of them focus solely on increasing views and likes.
 

According to a survey by the National Institute of Mental Health and Hospital regarding internet addiction, 10.8% of users are children aged 10–14 years (17 million), and 26% are youth aged 15–25 years (32 million). Among internet users, 76.1% watch videos, 55.9% engage in social media, 54.5% play games; 79.4% use smartphones, 3.9% use laptops, 4.5% use basic phones, and 2.8% use desktops. In this context, Dr. Mo. Tayyebur Rahman Royal, Assistant Professor at NIMH & Hospital, told Jugantor that excessive and abusive use of mobile phones, tablets, and computers is harming people physically and mentally across all ages. Over time, it may lead to various diseases, especially disturbances in sleep. Some may resort to alcohol or drugs to relieve stress and depression. Distance and disconnection with family members is another outcome. In addition, conditions such as depression, anxiety, acute stress disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder may develop. But in most cases, such conditions are ignored. In this situation, it’s crucial to prioritize mental health care for the affected.
 

Professor Mehjabin Haq, Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, University of Dhaka, told Jugantor that if we do not learn to use technology properly, its negative effects will persist in our lives. It affects generation after generation. For instance, if a child refuses to eat, parents hand them a gadget and let them watch cartoons  it silences them momentarily but harms the child. Students have to use smartphones for studies, communication, entertainment, exams, and receiving notices. You cannot isolate them completely. Yet adults are often forced to stay online for work, too. This alters their behavior, mental health, and physical well‑being.
 

Dr. Mo. Munaim Reza Munim, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry & Addiction, Enam Medical College & Hospital, told Jugantor that the alarming growth of smartphone use among children and adolescents in Bangladesh is largely due to the lack of alternative entertainment. For instance, many children in cities lack space to play outdoors. Their days are consumed by school, coaching, and private tuition, leaving little time for wholesome entertainment.
 

Dr. Munim added that most families have no guidance on how much mobile use is appropriate. Not only children but anyone can develop an addiction from excessive smartphone usage. To avoid addiction, one should increase time spent on sports, exercise, drawing/painting, reading books, etc. It is not enough just to restrict smartphone use in children; adults must also raise their awareness and responsibility.