Why Teenagers Sometimes Lose Their Beloved Phones

Ever wonder why, when teenagers seem so addicted to their cell phones, they sometimes “lose” them?

Or choose to ignore them?

Or actually turn them off?

It could just be you, especially if your name is “Mom” or “Dad”. But it also could be something more.

In a recent survey by Common Sense Media, 13-17-year-old U.S. teenagers were asked about social media’s impact on their social and emotional lives. While most teenagers report feeling like social media helps their relationships with friends and parents, half still prefer face to face communication best. Text is the second-best option. Only 8% prefer communicating via social networks best.

Here’s the real kicker: Sometimes they wish they could just disconnect.

They get tired of compulsive Facebook checking, especially when they’re trying to have a conversation with someone else who’s glued to their smart phone.

Nearly half wish they could completely unplug sometimes.

Check out the infographic below for some interesting quotes and more stats. The one that stood out to me the most was this:

Sometimes it’s nice to just sit back and relax with no way possible to communicate with anyone in any way. That’s why I occasionally ‘lose’ my cell phone.

This weekend, ask a teenager you know whether this rings true for them. If so, what can you do to help create some unplugged space in their life?

Posted July 13 2012 by

Brad M. Griffin

Brad M. Griffin is the Associate Director of the Fuller Youth Institute, where he gets to develop research-based training for youth workers. In addition to coauthoring Sticky Faith and Deep Justice Journeys, Brad has authored or coauthored a number of youth ministry book chapters and journal articles. A native Kentuckian, Brad now lives in Pasadena with his wife Missy and their three children. After more than 15 years in youth ministry, he now volunteers at Mountainside Communion.

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