Psychologists at the University of Kent presented the first findings of a major survey on social media use to schoolchildren on Tuesday. Dr. Lindsey Cameron and Dr. Katie Goodbun surveyed more than 800 young people aged 11–17 for The Alternative Consultation. The event took place on the Canterbury campus.
The research follows The Social Experiment, a prior project where secondary school pupils in Kent swapped their smartphones for basic "brick" phones for a week. Students then reflected on their experiences, providing qualitative context for the new quantitative data. The team aims to understand not just screen time but emotional and social impacts.
Full details of the survey results have not yet been publicly released. The researchers indicated the data will inform future interventions and policy recommendations. No specific percentages or rankings were disclosed at the announcement event.
The implications for educators and parents are significant, as the findings could shape digital literacy programs. Dr. Cameron noted that young people expressed both benefits and drawbacks, though exact breakdowns remain under analysis. The team plans to publish a comprehensive report later this year.
Counter-argument: Critics may note that a sample drawn solely from Kent schools limits generalizability to other regions or demographics. The self-reported nature of the survey also raises questions about accuracy, as respondents may underreport or exaggerate their social media habits.