A sweeping global study has found that children who own smartphones before the age of 13 face significantly higher risks of poor mental health outcomes later in life.
The research, which surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries, links early smartphone access to increased rates of depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, and low self-worth, especially among girls. Experts warn that excessive screen time and early exposure to social media can disrupt sleep, emotional regulation, and social development. The study urges parents to delay giving smartphones to children until at least age 13 and calls for greater digital literacy education.
These findings have sparked renewed debate among parents, educators, and policymakers about the appropriate age for children to own smartphones.
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