19 December 2023 , 14:31
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A festive phubbing could be on the cards this Christmas as a majority of Brits plan to spend their time around the dinner table catching up on TikTok.
A new survey, part of Amazon's Chatterbox series, has found that 53 per cent of those polled believe it’s okay to use their mobile phones at the table. It means up to 34 million people could be scrolling through Facebook while the turkey is being carved and perhaps even live-streaming their Christmas lunch.
The poll of 3,000 UK Amazon workers gives a fascinating snapshot into family life. Men were more likely to be in favour (53%) compared to the majority of women who think you shouldn’t have your phone out (51%). The generation gap is clear too, with over half (53%) of Gen Z finding it acceptable, while the majority of Boomers (72%) are against it.
Barry Innes, 50, and his son Joe, 25, who work together at Amazon’s Bolton warehouse, hold completely opposite views on the matter. Barry said: “I just think it’s ignorant to be honest. I know life can get busy and everything’s online these days, but there has to be a line drawn, especially during Christmas. It’s the one time of the year when we should all hit pause, be present with our loved ones and have a laugh together."
He continued: “It’s completely unacceptable to read messages, thumb through Facebook or take a call at the Christmas dinner table. Christmas is about being in the moment, not swiping through it on a screen if you ask me.”
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Barry’s youngest son Joe, on the other hand, had a different outlook altogether. He said: “We have family in Ireland and Australia, so having your phone out can bridge the distance and make them a part of the festivities with a call or text, even if they’re miles away.
“It’s also a way to capture memories. Christmas dinner is without a doubt the best part of the day, so why wouldn’t you want to snap some photos to look back on in years to come? Plus, apps like Charades or Heads Up are always a hit with everyone and get the whole family involved.”
The Amazon poll also found that Londoners were most likely to say no (57%) to getting their phones out at the table while in Wales it was an overwhelming yes (62%). The survey is part of Amazon’s “Chatterbox” series – unique research from one of the UK’s largest private sector employers which acts as a modern-day barometer of UK opinions.
It also includes a new behind the scenes video series of Amazon employees revealing the most contentious debates around the Christmas dinner table – including ’Are thumbs fingers?, ‘Are Jaffa Cakes biscuits?’ and ‘What’s the best chocolate bar?’.
Watch the series here: www.amazonchatterbox.co.uk.