A Survey of Mothers About the Challenges They Face and the Actions They Take to Reduce Their Children’s Mobile Phone Usage: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract\r\nBackground\r\nMobile addiction among children has emerged as a significant public health and social concern worldwide. Parents, particularly mothers, are often blamed for allowing excessive screen exposure among children. However, many parents are deeply concerned about the adverse effects of mobile phone use and actively attempt to regulate their children’s screen time. Despite their efforts, they encounter numerous challenges that are frequently overlooked. This qualitative study explored mothers’ concerns regarding children’s mobile phone use, the factors contributing to excessive usage, challenges faced while restricting screen time, and strategies adopted to reduce mobile dependence among children.\r\nMethods\r\nA qualitative study was conducted among 120 mothers residing in Khed Taluka, Ratnagiri District, Konkan Region, Maharashtra, India. Participants had children aged between 6 and 10 years. Individual interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed through inductive thematic analysis. Emerging themes were identified and interpreted by the research team.\r\nResults\r\nMost participating mothers belonged to the 36–45 years age group (43%). Children aged 10 years constituted the largest subgroup (38%). Ninety percent of households owned multiple smartphones, while all households had televisions. Additionally, 19% possessed laptops/desktops and 12% had tablets. Half of the children used mobile phones for 1–2 hours daily, and gaming was reported as the primary activity by 50% of participants. Mothers expressed considerable concern regarding the impact of mobile usage on children’s physical, mental, social, and academic development. Family-related barriers, particularly inconsistent support from fathers and grandparents, emerged as major obstacles to reducing screen time. Mothers reported implementing various strategies including activity substitution, strict schedules, outdoor play promotion, and family discussions.\r\nConclusion\r\nMothers are making persistent efforts to reduce mobile phone addiction among children; however, their success is often limited by broader family dynamics and environmental influences. Effective prevention and management of excessive mobile use among children require collective family involvement, community awareness, and supportive parenting practices.\r\n