Teenage girls who text not good at academics

Teenage girls who compulsively text are more likely to have reduced performance in academics than teenage boys, scientists have found.

‘It appears it is the compulsive nature of texting, rather than sheer frequency, that is problematic,’ said lead researcher Kelly M Lister.

‘Compulsive texting is more complex than frequency of texting. It involves trying and failing to cut back on texting, becoming defensive when challenged about behaviour, and feeling frustrated when one can’t do it,’ she said.

The team surveyed 403 students (211 girls, 192 boys) in grades eight and eleven. 68% of teenagers were from households with two parents and were primarily white (83%).

The students had completed a questionnaire that focused on their academic performance and how well-adjusted they were in school. Only girls showed a negative association between this type of texting and school performance, which included grades, school bonding and feeling academically competent.

Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.