A sweeping global study has found that giving children smartphones before age 13 is strongly linked to poorer mental health outcomes later in life.
Researchers surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries and found early smartphone ownership is associated with increased risks of depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, and low self-worth, especially among girls. The study highlights that excessive screen time and early exposure to social media can disrupt sleep, harm emotional regulation, and negatively impact social development. Experts are urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children and calling for policy changes, including school bans and raising the minimum age for device ownership.
The findings reinforce growing concerns about the long-term impact of digital technology on childhood development and mental well-being.
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