Rise in Smartphone Use and Decline in Reading Habits Among Japanese Students
A recent survey has revealed a concerning trend among children in Japan: roughly half of elementary, junior high, and high school students do not read books at all. This figure represents a 1.5-fold increase over the past decade, highlighting a growing disconnection from traditional reading practices.
The study, conducted by the Benesse Educational Research & Development Institute in collaboration with the University of Tokyo, focused on approximately 20,000 parent-child pairs. The research used a “panel survey” method, meaning the same subjects were surveyed annually since 2015. Data was collected each year between July and September, allowing for a longitudinal analysis of changes in reading habits and smartphone usage.
The findings, released on October 20, show that the proportion of students who do not read books at all—whether in print or digital form—reached 52.7% in 2024, compared to 34.3% in 2015. This trend is particularly pronounced as students grow older:
- 33.6% of first to third graders
- 47.7% of fourth to sixth graders
- 59.8% of junior high school students
- 69.8% of high school students
Overall daily reading time has also been declining, especially among older students. From 2015 to 2024, reading time decreased by:
- 6.3 minutes to 15.6 minutes for fourth to sixth graders
- 5.9 minutes to 14.1 minutes for middle school students
- 4.9 minutes to 10.1 minutes for high school students
In contrast, smartphone use has increased significantly across all age groups. Daily smartphone usage rose by:
- 22.4 minutes to 33.4 minutes for fourth to sixth graders
- 51.9 minutes to 95.7 minutes for junior high students
- 42.5 minutes to 138.3 minutes for high school students
The study found a clear correlation between increased smartphone use and reduced reading time, particularly among fourth to sixth graders and middle school students. This suggests that the more time students spend on their devices, the less time they dedicate to reading.
Additionally, the research examined the relationship between vocabulary test results and reading time among students in third and sixth grades, as well as those in their third year of junior high school. It found that longer reading times were associated with higher vocabulary levels in these groups.
Haruo Kimura, chief researcher at the Benesse institute, emphasized the dual role of digital devices. He stated, “Digital devices can both encroach on reading time and expand the scope of intellectual activities. What is important is to ensure time for engaging with comprehensive texts and opportunities to explore new worlds, whether on paper or digital.”
This study underscores the need for a balanced approach to technology and traditional learning. As smartphones become an integral part of daily life, it is crucial to find ways to encourage reading and critical thinking among young people.
Key Findings from the Study
- Declining Reading Habits:A significant portion of Japanese students are not reading books, with this trend increasing over the past decade.
- Rising Smartphone Use:Students are spending more time on smartphones, which correlates with less time spent reading.
- Age-Related Trends:The tendency to avoid reading increases with age, with high school students showing the highest rates of non-reading.
- Impact on Vocabulary:Longer reading times are linked to better vocabulary scores in younger students.
- Balanced Approach Needed:Researchers highlight the importance of maintaining time for deep reading while leveraging the benefits of digital tools.