Phone on Purpose: A Youth-Developed Health Promotion Project Idea for Intentional Smartphone Use

Developed by a Thai high school student, Phone on Purpose is a youth-led health promotion project idea that aims to help adolescents use smartphones more intentionally. Inspired by personal experiences, peer observations, and published research, the project emphasizes self-awareness, self-regulation, and personal choice rather than simply reducing screen time. The proposed initiative involves approximately 30 volunteer secondary-school students participating in a seven-day “Phone on Purpose” activity following the Notice–Choose–Try–Reflect–Decide framework. Students would identify situations involving unintentional smartphone use, try personalized strategies such as managing notifications or setting app limits, and reflect on their experiences. A group reflection session and pre- and post-activity responses would support learning and future project refinement. The project has not yet been implemented, and no participant outcomes are reported. It illustrates how young people's everyday experiences can inspire participatory, youth-led health promotion approaches that encourage intentional smartphone use and digital well-being.At its heart, Phone on Purpose encourages young people to pause and ask themselves one simple but meaningful question: “Am I using my phone the way I intended to?” Key wordsDigital Well-Being; Intentional Smartphone Use; Youth-Led Health Promotion; Self-Regulation; Adolescents