US Study Links Parents' Smartphone Use to Insecure Attachment in Teens

Researchers surveyed 600 American adolescents aged 12‑17 and found that frequent parental smartphone use is associated with insecure attachment, lower self‑esteem and heightened anxiety in children. The study, published in Frontiers in Psychology, describes how caregivers’ “technoference” – being physically present but emotionally absent – can leave lasting psychological effects. Psychologist Don Grant warned, “It could really unfavourably impact their attachment security, which they will carry for life.” Almost half of the teens reported feeling ignored when parents were distracted by phones, while fewer parents acknowledged the problem. The findings underscore growing concerns about digital habits within families and their impact on child development.

The research adds to evidence that parental screen habits, not just children’s own usage, influence mental health outcomes and may inform future guidance on family media practices.