Caught in the Scroll: Why We Can't Stop Swiping Our Phones

Many people have experienced picking up their phone to check something quickly, only to find themselves scrolling through apps for much longer than they planned. According to a new report, more than a third of the time people spend on their phones is actually unintentional. Dr Eleanor Drage from Cambridge University explains that this is not just about people making poor choices. Instead, she believes that the way technology is designed makes it easy for us to lose track of time. The bright screens, endless content, and constant notifications are all meant to keep us engaged.

A survey done in the UK found that adults spend an average of four hours a day on their phones, and about 36 percent of that time is spent without a clear purpose. Even though many people know about tools that can help them control their screen time, they often find it hard to use them. Dr Drage says that even though people are more aware of the problems with using their phones too much, they still struggle to manage their time online. Most people say they use their phones for things like messaging, checking the weather, or using maps. However, they also admit to spending a lot of time just scrolling through social media or switching between apps without really thinking about it.

The report also found that people who spend more time on their phones without a clear reason are more likely to feel worse afterwards. They might see things that upset them or just feel unhappy after using their phones. Professor Pete Etchells from Bath Spa University says that recognizing your own habits is an important first step to changing them. He also points out that using your phone is not always a bad thing, but it is important to notice when it leads to negative feelings or dangerous situations, like checking your phone while driving. Some experts suggest turning off notifications for non-essential apps and spending more time doing activities that do not involve screens. Dr Drage hopes that people can learn to use their devices in a way that feels manageable and positive, rather than letting technology control them.