Research: 50% of teenagers feel anxious without a smartphone

Half of teenagers aged 13 to 18 say they feel anxious when they don't have their smartphone with them, a survey commissioned by BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Bitesize reveals.

The online survey, conducted by Survation, surveyed 2,000 teens aged 13 to 18, asking them about a range of different issues affecting teens' lives. These topics ranged from social media anxiety, phone use and addiction, to sexual harassment and street safety.

The survey also found that three-quarters (74%) said they would not consider trading in their smartphone for a more basic device that only allows phone calls and text messages. A quarter (25%) said they use their phone for more than five hours in a typical day.

On a positive note, 75 percent of teens surveyed said they felt positive about their future, and only 11 percent felt negative about what lies ahead.

Heidi Dawson, controller of BBC Radio 5 Live, said: “Understanding how teenagers feel and think about the world is crucial and this survey provides some fascinating insights. Some of the findings are eye-opening and the research shows that a big conversation is needed about teen issues and cell phone use.

Helen Foulkes, Head of Education at the BBC, said: Helen Foulkes, Head of Education at the BBC, added: “BBC Bitesize offers a wide range of content to help young people thrive and survive during their school years and this survey gives us even better insight into the challenges and concerns. and the aspirations of teenagers across the UK. We are delighted to be able to help them navigate and better understand each other, with the launch of The world of Bitesize wellness podcast and the My teenage brain series. Both are fantastic additions to the incredible help and advice already available on Bitesize Study Support.