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 fuel addictive behaviors. Experts are now urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children and calling for minimum age guidelines, with 13 as the recommended threshold.
The findings have sparked renewed debate about screen time limits and the need for policy changes to protect children's mental health.
.Be the first to reply to this general discussion.
Join in on more popular conversations.
