A new report from the Pew Research Center reveals that nearly three-quarters of U.S. teens feel happy or peaceful when they don't have their phones with them, despite the majority not limiting their phone or social media use. This comes as policymakers and children's advocates are increasingly concerned about teens' relationships with their devices.

Last fall, several states, including California and New York, sued Instagram and Facebook owner Meta Platforms Inc. for allegedly harming young people and contributing to the youth mental health crisis. In January, the CEOs of major social media companies testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee about the harms their platforms pose to young people.

Despite these concerns, most teens believe that smartphones have more benefits than harms for people their age. The survey found that 95% of U.S. teens have access to a smartphone, with a majority saying that it makes it easier for them to pursue hobbies, be creative, and do well in school.

The report also highlighted the dynamics between parents and teens regarding phone use. About half of parents limit their teen's phone time, while a similar share do not. Arguments about phone use are common, with Hispanic Americans more likely to report frequent arguments. Interestingly, parents of younger teens are more likely to monitor their phone use compared to parents of older teens.

Additionally, the survey found that 42% of teens believe smartphones make learning good social skills harder, while 30% believe it makes it easier. Half of parents also admitted to spending too much time on their phones, with higher-income and white parents more likely to report this behavior.