A sweeping global study has found that children who own smartphones before age 13 are at significantly higher risk for mental health problems, 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, shows that early smartphone use is especially harmful for girls and is associated with poorer well-being in early adulthood. Experts warn that increased screen time and exposure to social media at a young age can disrupt sleep, hinder social development, and fuel addictive behaviors.
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 school bans and stricter guidelines on children's access to digital devices.
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