Stat: Gen Z Brits wish they were growing up without the internet

UK  – Nearly half (47%) of UK people aged 16–21 would rather grow up in a world without the internet, according to new research published by certification organisation the BSI.

The survey of 1,293 young people highlights a complex reality: although digital life is unavoidable, particularly after the pandemic, many are seeking boundaries and limits. Half believe a social media curfew would improve their wellbeing, and 79% say tech companies should be legally required to build stronger privacy protections for children and teenagers. 

‘The younger generation was promised technology that would create opportunities,’ said Susan Taylor Martin, BSI CEO. ‘Yet it is exposing young people to risk and negatively affecting their quality of life.’ 

The findings show that 68% feel worse about themselves after time online, with 42% hiding their digital behaviour from parents and 40% admitting to using fake accounts. 

Daisy Greenwell, co-founder of Smart Phone Free Childhood, said, ‘Nearly half of young people would prefer to grow up without the internet. That should be a wake-up call for all of us.’ 

These findings highlight increasing scrutiny of teen technology use amid rising mental health concerns. Our Teens, Tech and Tapping Out report explores how social media’s addictive nature is driving a grassroots push to rethink technology habits.