A study conducted at the University of Cambridge showed that teenagers experience increased sensitivity to threats after spending a few hours alone, even when connected online. This heightened alertness to potential dangers could lead to feelings of anxiety and unease, potentially contributing to anxiety disorders among young people. The study found that even with smartphone connectivity, periods of isolation led to increased threat responses. The research suggests that loneliness and isolation may impact adolescent mental health over time. The study, published in Royal Society Open Science, is the first of its kind to demonstrate these effects in human subjects.
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Experiment shows time alone heightens ‘threat alert’ in teenagers—even when using social media
