Expert psychologist weighs in on school mobile phone ban

In a follow-up to our story about the phone ban in schools,  Dr. Peter Macauley, senior lecturer in psychology at the university of Derby, discusses the potential consequences of banning mobile phones in schools, including effects on cyberbullying and classroom climate

“Given the relatively high prevalence rates of cyberbullying, the ban of mobile phone use during the school day will have varying ramifications for young people, teachers, and parents/guardians.

“Experiencing cyberbullying is associated with lower school adjustment, poorer academic performance, and a reduced sense of belonging in the classroom. On the one hand, the ban of mobile phone use during the school day will limit the opportunity for young people to bully others online. It will also reduce distractions in and between lessons throughout the school day, promoting a more positive classroom climate.

“While cyberbullying is more likely to occur outside the school environment, it is often the negative impact associated with involvement that spills into the school. With the ban of mobile phones, even if cyberbullying is still happening outside the school environment, the outcome of a more positive classroom environment due to a no-phone policy means that adolescents who experience cyberbullying will display lower levels of cognitive-behavioural disengagement.

“On the other hand, the ban on mobile phones in school may indirectly promote other forms of bullying and disruptive behaviour throughout the school day. For example, cases of traditional bullying (i.e., physical, verbal, or relational forms of bullying) may increase as a way for bullies to continue targeting their victims.

“The new policy may further increase the use of mobile phones the moment children and adolescents return home, potentially creating further challenges for parents/guardians monitoring the use of digital technology.”