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Justice Shekhar Yadav’s observations on mobile phones resonate with a growing body of research on the psychological impacts of technology

Several studies from global and Indian institutions have linked excessive screen time and social media use to increased rates of loneliness and anxiety, particularly among youth. Representational image
Justice Shekhar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court has pointed to the widespread use of mobile phones as a contributing factor to social decay, family fragmentation, and a rise in loneliness and suicides. Speaking on Wednesday, Justice Yadav remarked that the relentless advent of mobile technology has effectively ended traditional family communication, leading to a sense of isolation among individuals.
Justice Yadav noted that in many modern families, despite living under the same roof, members communicate primarily through text messages or remain isolated in their own worlds, glued to their screens. This, he argued, has replaced the face-to-face conversations and familial bonds that once acted as a crucial support system. The breakdown of this core support structure, he concluded, is pushing many towards severe mental health issues, including depression and suicidal ideation.
“Parents should not burden their children with anything and should not say that you have to become a doctor, you have to become an engineer…Let the child make a career in the direction he wants. Your child may be average, so do not compare him with another child. Thank God that he has given you a child because many people are childless,” he said.
Justice Yadav’s observations resonate with a growing body of research on the psychological impacts of technology. Several studies from global and Indian institutions have linked excessive screen time and social media use to increased rates of loneliness and anxiety, particularly among youth. These studies suggest that while digital platforms create a sense of constant connection, they often lead to a feeling of social isolation and can exacerbate mental health conditions.
Suicide Prevention: If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata)
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
September 11, 2025, 06:19 IST
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