A new study shows a surprising shift among teenagers — many now wish for a world without the internet. Conducted by the British Standards Institution (BSI), the study surveyed 1,294 young people in the UK between the ages of 16 and 21. Nearly 46% of them said they would prefer to live without the internet altogether.
Although the internet has become part of everyday life for all age groups, a growing number of young people feel it’s doing more harm than good. Around 70% of the participants admitted feeling worse about themselves after spending time on social media. Half of them said they support a digital curfew at night to avoid certain apps and sites.
According to BSI CEO Susan Taylor Martin, technology was expected to improve lives, connect people, and open new opportunities. But she pointed out that it’s now causing more harm to the mental well-being of the youth, leaving them vulnerable and often affecting their quality of life.
The study also found that 26% of teens spend over four hours daily on social media, while 20% spend three or more hours on gaming. Most admitted their screen time increased since the pandemic began.
Young women, in particular, reported facing more online harassment. About 37% of girls experienced harassment online, compared to 28% of boys. Also, 85% of young women said they compare their appearance or lifestyle to others online, and nearly half do this often or very often.
Daisy Greenwell, co-founder of Smart Phone Free Childhood, said the results are a wake-up call. Teens are now asking for healthier boundaries, limits, and protection online. Many want tools like age checks, curfews, and better digital safety.
This shift comes as the UK media regulator, Ofcom, demands platforms introduce stricter rules like age verification and content control for youth, or face heavy fines.
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