A recent Pew Research Center survey has shown that most US adults now support full school day cellphone bans. Seventy-seven percent back the idea of banning cellphones during class hours, while 48% are for a ban throughout the entire school day.

This shift in public opinion comes as more than 20 states in America have already adopted so-called ‘bell-to-bell’ bans. The reasons behind this trend are multifaceted – from concerns about distractions to fears of cyberbullying and social isolation among young people.

Support was notably higher among older adults, with Republicans showing a particular inclination towards full bans. However, even Democrats were broadly supportive of class-wide bans at 74%, albeit less enthusiastic about all-day restrictions.

The impact of these bans remains mixed according to early studies. Some reports suggest positive long-term effects on students' well-being without affecting test scores, while others highlight initial increases in suspension rates before levels return to normal. A decrease in unexcused absences is another observed benefit.