Smartphone overuse strains parent-child bond, prompts Vivo's 'Switch Off' campaign

In the age of digital dominance, smartphones have seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, yet their ubiquitous presence has taken a toll on the cherished relationships between parents and children. According to the latest findings from the vivo Switch Off Research study, a staggering 93% of parents feel a sense of guilt in their connections with their children, attributing it to the pervasive use of smartphones.

Vivo in collaboration with Cybermedia Research (CMR), has unveiled the fifth edition of the vivo Switch Off Research study, titled 'Impact of smartphones on Parent–Child Relationship.' The study delves into the detrimental effects of excessive and mindless smartphone use on the bonds between parents and children.

Going beyond a conventional report, vivo has declared December 20th as 'Switch Off' day, urging Indian consumers to power down their digital screens and spend quality time with their loved ones. To advocate responsible technology use, vivo has enlisted the expertise of Catherine Price, a renowned health and science writer and founder of 'Screen/life Balance.' Price will advise vivo in curating solutions to help individuals develop healthier relationships with their smartphones.

Geetaj Channana, Head of Corporate Strategy at vivo India, emphasized the importance of the Switch Off Campaign, stating, "Our aim is to empower people to regain control over their time and attention, facilitating a reconnection with and prioritization of their loved ones."

The survey uncovered insightful patterns in smartphone usage among parents and children. While 70% of parents acknowledge the role of smartphones in enhancing their knowledge and connecting with family and friends, the study also reveals alarming statistics about children's smartphone habits. On average, children start using smartphones at the age of 12, spending approximately 6.5 hours daily, with gaming being a predominant focus.

Concerns over children's mental health and overall development arise, with 91% experiencing anxiety when distanced from their phones. Parents express deep worries, with 94% concerned about their children's mental well-being and 91% advocating restrictions on smartphone access.

The study underscores a significant challenge in parent-child relationships, as 90% of parents admit to occasional irritation when interrupted by their children engrossed in smartphones, and 91% of children feel lonelier due to their parents' smartphone usage. However, amidst these challenges, the study reveals a silver lining, with 93% of parents and children expressing a mutual desire to deepen family connections, signifying a collective effort to nurture stronger bonds in today's technology-driven world.

Additional key findings include parents spending 7.7 hours per day with their smartphones, slightly more than children. Despite spending approximately two hours together, 75% of parents admit to simultaneous phone engagement, raising questions about the quality of interactions. The study encourages a collective movement towards fostering genuine relationships amid the digital age.