First Things Podcast

A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from Smartphones

10 snips
Jul 10, 2025
Clare Morell, an author and expert on technology policy at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, dives into the pressing challenges posed by smartphones for kids and teens. She highlights the dangers of smartphone dependency and the shortcomings of traditional screen time limits. Clare advocates for 'screen detox' techniques and school policies banning phones to foster healthier tech habits. Discussing legislative needs for age restrictions, she emphasizes accountability for tech companies in protecting youth from online threats, empowering families to create supportive environments.
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INSIGHT

Screen Limits Insufficient for Kids

  • Screen time limits and parental controls don't solve smartphone addiction harms.
  • Addictive design and brain dopamine responses overpower young users' self-control.
INSIGHT

Loneliness Despite Connectivity

  • Dopamine from screens causes craving without satisfaction, lacking oxytocin's bonding effects.
  • This results in loneliness despite constant digital connection among teens.
INSIGHT

Smartphones Cripple Emotional Growth

  • Smartphones foster self-focus, stunting youths' emotional regulation and self-control.
  • This impairs their development and ability to relate maturely to others.
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