A sweeping global study has found that children who receive smartphones before age 13 are at significantly higher risk for mental health problems later in life, including depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, and low self-worth.
The research, which surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries, highlights especially strong negative effects for girls and points to social media exposure as a key factor. Experts urge parents to delay giving smartphones and social media access to preteens, warning that early screen exposure can disrupt brain development, sleep, and emotional regulation. The findings have sparked calls for policy changes and increased digital literacy education to protect young minds.
Parents are encouraged to set firm boundaries around device use and prioritize offline activities for children.
.Here are the top political news stories for today.
Be the first to reply to this general discussion.
Join in on more popular conversations.
