Smartphones may be putting young children’s mental health at risk. A CNN report cites a global study showing that kids who use smartphones before age 13 are more likely to experience serious emotional problems, including suicidal thoughts, poor emotional control, and low self-esteem.
The study, published in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, is based on surveys from nearly 2 million people in 163 countries. Researchers found that the earlier a child gets a smartphone, the greater the mental health risks, especially for girls.
According to this CNN report, these effects are linked to increased social media use, disrupted sleep, cyberbullying, and strained family relationships. Experts now recommend restricting smartphones and social media for kids under 13, and delaying social media access until age 16.
If your child already has a smartphone, experts say it’s not too late to act. You can use parental controls, switch to simpler devices, or remove harmful apps. Honest communication and support from professionals can help ease the transition.
Also read: ‘Brain rot’ is the Oxford Word of the Year 2024
For now, waiting may be one of the smartest moves a parent can make.
