Amid growing concerns about the mental health of America's youth, a new national poll indicates that most parents and voters worry that policies focusing primarily on banning or severely limiting young people's access to phones and technology could lead to unintended consequences. Instead, they favor a broader strategy that addresses multiple influences on youth well-being.
The survey, commissioned by the Coalition to Empower our Future (CEF) and conducted by Mercury Analytics, found that seven-in-10 registered voters and nearly three-quarters of parents believe a narrow focus on restricting technology may not solve deeper mental health challenges. The research included a nationwide survey of 2,000 registered voters, with expanded polling among parents in California, New York, and Texas, along with focus group discussions.
One California parent noted, “I don’t necessarily support taking the phones away. It’s like solving a symptom but not necessarily the problem.” A New York parent added, “Bans, with no questions asked, are not a good solution because it’ll be like ‘okay, I’m not allowed to do this, so now I have more of an inclination to do this.’”
Survey participants consistently favored collaboration among parents, educators, healthcare professionals, community organizations, and policymakers over single-policy solutions. Nearly three out of four respondents said improving youth wellbeing requires such a comprehensive approach.
The findings also highlighted widespread support for digital literacy. More than 80 percent of voters and almost 90 percent of parents agreed that children and teens should receive instruction on safely and responsibly using emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI). Respondents emphasized equipping parents with guidance and resources to help children make informed decisions online.
As AI applications, social media platforms, and digital learning tools become increasingly integrated into daily life, many parents believe education and skill-building may be more effective than bans. One Texas parent remarked, “I think kids are technologically savvy, but not digitally literate. A lot of them are unable to use higher-order thinking skills to understand what they are watching or experiencing.”
Overall, the research suggests that respondents view youth mental health as complex, shaped by family support, school environments, community involvement, and responsible technology use. Rather than emphasizing bans, many favored balanced solutions combining mental health services, digital literacy education, parental engagement, and community support.
The study, conducted in April 2026 in partnership with Mercury Analytics, included a nationwide survey of 2,000 registered voters and oversamples of 600 parents each in California, New York, and Texas. Additional information about the research is available through the Coalition to Empower our Future at this link.
