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CNBC
For young Americans, the workplace is the new phoneless frontier. 'It allows us to hyper focus on the task at hand,' says employer
The implementation of strict no-phone policies for young employees, particularly in summer jobs, is becoming more common. Employers believe that these policies enhance productivity and safety, as many teens spend excessive time on screens, which has been linked to anxiety and depression. Psychotherapists advocate for environments that help teens regulate their phone use, citing the importance of separation between device-free time and technology engagement.
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Published 22 Aug 2026, 13:55 UTC2 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Employers like Morey's Piers enforce no-phone policies during work hours.
- Half of teenagers spend over four hours on screens daily, raising health concerns.
- No-phone environments may help mitigate depression and anxiety symptoms.
- Psychotherapists recommend balancing device-free and device-allowed spaces.
- The trend aligns with broader societal calls for reduced screen time among youth.
Interesting facts
- Teen employees are often required to store their phones in lockers during shifts.
- The CDC highlights negative mental health effects linked to high screen time.