Mentor: Oana Godeanu-Kenworthy, Ph.D.

Screen time is unavoidable, as our society has become intertwined with technology in the way we think and act. Even though technology can connect individuals virtually, it has inhibited connection. Excessive screen time is associated with increased anxiety, loneliness, and reduced well-being. Consequently, many people disconnect from the real world and choose to live within the parameters of their digital world for comfort and escape. Excessive screen time affects one’s physical and mental health, which limits individuals’ ability to reflect on the broader social problem: our growing inability to form genuine, face-to-face connections despite the greatly advancing technological world. To combat the effects of these social issues tied to screen time, I propose that the government implement a National Digital Detox Day: a mandated nationwide period that offers a pause and time to reflect away from technology.

For one day, as a federal holiday, all nonessential forms of technology—social media, streaming, video games, browsing sites, and entertainment applications—would be disconnected, and societies would dedicate this day to togetherness and self-reflection through community activities and interactions. This initiative parallels the classical utopian philosophy: fostering peace, stability, and welfare for the whole. Removing nonessential forms of technology will allow people a step back from screens and let them rediscover themselves and their relationships around them. In tandem, there would be more time spent together at the dinner table and more block parties; overall, individuals would be able to understand the value of being present. Without intentional actions between individuals in society, there is an erosion of happiness, and meaningful connections will cease to exist.

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