A sweeping global study has found that children who receive smartphones before age 13 face significantly higher risks of mental health issues, including depression, low self-worth, aggression, and even suicidal thoughts later in life.
The research, which surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries, highlights that early smartphone ownership is especially harmful for girls and is linked to poorer well-being in early adulthood. Experts warn that increased screen time and exposure to social media at a young age can disrupt sleep, social development, and emotional stability.
As a result, scientists and health professionals are urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children until at least age 13. The findings have sparked renewed calls for stricter guidelines and even bans on smartphone and social media use for pre-teens.
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