At a recent meeting, representatives from Sociedad Latina expressed growing concerns about the impact of cell phone use on teenagers. Highlighting the detrimental effects of excessive screen time, they pointed to issues such as unhealthy social media comparisons, misinformation, racism, self-harm, and cyberbullying. The organization noted a troubling trend: teenagers today report feeling sadder than ever before, a situation exacerbated by the addictive nature of social media and technology.
Sociedad Latina emphasized the connection between nighttime cell phone use and negative outcomes, including poor sleep, decreased academic performance, and increased rates of depression among youth. They commended Boston Public Schools (BPS) for implementing a no cell phone policy, recognizing it as a positive step towards addressing these challenges. However, they also pointed out inconsistencies in the policy's enforcement, as revealed by a survey conducted among local youth.
In response to these issues, Sociedad Latina has introduced a new initiative requiring youth to store their phones in a locked cabinet during activities. This policy aims to foster a healthier environment and has involved collaboration with families to ensure support and planning. The organization remains committed to addressing the mental health and wellness of young people in the face of rising digital challenges.