A sweeping global study has found that children who receive smartphones before age 13 face significantly higher risks of poor mental health outcomes, 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 increased screen time and exposure to social media. Experts are urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children until at least age 13, citing the profound impact on developing minds and emotional well-being. The findings have sparked renewed calls for school bans on smartphones and greater parental vigilance.
Health professionals emphasize that limiting screen time and delaying device ownership can help protect children's mental health and social development.
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