Teens Demand a ‘Digital Curfew’ Amid Concerns Over Addictive Internet Habits

A recent survey conducted by the British Standards Institution has revealed a surprising truth about how young people feel about the digital world: nearly half of 16- to 21-year-olds said they would rather grow up in a world without the internet. This finding shines a spotlight on the growing discomfort among youth regarding their online experiences, especially with social media.

The study included 1,293 young people and uncovered widespread concerns about the impact of the internet on mental health. Nearly 70 % of respondents reported feeling worse about themselves after spending time on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. These platforms, known for their addictive design and heavily curated content, are often blamed for increasing feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, and loneliness among teenagers and young adults.

Rising Concerns: How the Internet Affects Young People’s Mental Health

Interestingly, 50% of those surveyed said they would support a “digital curfew,” which would limit access to certain apps after 10 p.m. This suggests a growing awareness among young people about the negative effects of excessive screen time, especially during late hours. Despite their heavy use of technology, many appear to be seeking boundaries and healthier ways to interact with the digital world.

The survey also highlighted some concerning online behaviors. A quarter of the respondents spend more than four hours daily on social media. Additionally, 42% admitted to lying to parents or guardians about their online activities. Many have gone further to hide their digital presence, with 40% reporting they use burner or fake accounts and 27% admitting to pretending to be someone else online.

Digital Boundaries: The Growing Support for Screen Time Restrictions

These behaviors point to a deeper issue: the lack of trust and safety in digital spaces. Rani Govender, policy manager for child safety online at the NSPCC, commented that while digital curfews might be helpful, they are not enough to keep children safe. She emphasized the need for tech companies to develop platforms that are less addictive and more focused on user safety.

The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in this shift. Three out of four young people said their online time increased during lockdowns, and 68% felt that this increase negatively affected their mental health. Additionally, 27% confessed to sharing their location online with strangers—a major safety risk.

Trust and Safety Online: Why Youth Are Hiding Their Digital Presence

Andy Burrows , CEO of the suicide prevention charity Molly Rose Foundation, stressed the need for stronger regulations. He warned about algorithms that feed users harmful content, often dragging them down dark paths of anxiety, self-harm, or worse. Burrows called for new laws to force companies to prioritize child safety through a “safe by design” approach, placing well-being ahead of profits.

This survey shows that today’s youth are not just passive users of technology—they are critically aware of its dangers. Many are asking for a change, not just in how they interact with the internet, but in how it’s built and governed. Their message is clear: if the digital world cannot be made safer and healthier, they’d rather not have it at all.