The Phone Is Not the Problem. The Silence Around It Is.

Written By Gurneet Kaur Jaitly, Counselling Psychologist
RPS International, Gurgaon

In many Indian homes, the mobile phone has quietly become part of everyday parenting. It keeps children occupied, helps with studies, and offers comfort during boredom or loneliness. At first glance, it feels harmless. But psychologically, its impact runs much deeper than we often realise.

The recent and deeply saddening case from Ghaziabad, involving three young sisters, shook the nation. Beyond the shock and grief, it served as a painful eye-opener—reminding us that emotional harm in the digital age often grows silently, within homes that appear safe and loving. Such tragedies force us to confront an uncomfortable truth: children today are navigating digital spaces their developing minds are not fully prepared for.

The parts of a child’s brain responsible for judgment, impulse control, and understanding consequences are still maturing. According to UNICEF and WHO observations, increased and unsupervised screen exposure in children is linked to rising anxiety, sleep problems, emotional imbalance, and reduced attention span. In India, these signs are often dismissed as moodiness, stubbornness, or academic pressure.

Online games and challenges can be particularly risky. Many are designed around reward systems—levels, streaks, secret tasks, and emotional validation. Over time, children may begin to rely on screens for comfort, confidence, and belonging. What starts as entertainment can quietly turn into emotional dependence.

The concern is not only about “too much screen time.” Even short but frequent phone use—during meals, before bed, or between tasks—can weaken focus and emotional resilience. Gradually, children learn to escape boredom, stress, or loneliness through a device instead of developing coping skills.

In Indian families, obedience is often mistaken for emotional well-being. Many children do not talk about their online world because they fear being scolded or misunderstood. Silence, then, is not discipline—it is disconnection. The solution is not fear or extreme control. What truly protects children is connection. Homes where feelings are discussed, curiosity is welcomed, and digital boundaries exist alongside trust create psychological safety.

The Ghaziabad tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder that phones are not the enemy—but unsupervised emotional access to a child’s inner world is a serious risk. In today’s India, protecting childhood means staying emotionally present and listening before silence becomes irreversible.

Psychologist’s Warning Signs

• Sudden withdrawal or secrecy
• Decline in academics or focus
• Sleep disturbances or irritability
• Loss of interest in real-life activities
• Strong emotional dependence on the phone

Mental Health Helplines (India)

• KIRAN Mental Health Helpline: 1800-599-0019 (24×7)
• Childline 1098
• AASRA: +91-9820466726
• iCall (TISS): 9152987821

Seeking help early can save lives.