A sweeping global study has found that giving children smartphones before age 13 is strongly associated with poorer mental health outcomes later in life.
Researchers surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries and found early smartphone ownership increases risks of depression, low self-worth, aggression, and even suicidal thoughts, especially among girls. The study highlights that excessive screen time and early exposure to social media can disrupt sleep, harm social development, and negatively impact academic performance. Experts are now urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children and calling for policy changes, including school bans and stricter age limits.
The findings reinforce growing concerns about the hidden dangers of digital devices on developing minds.
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