A sweeping global study has found that giving children smartphones before the age of 13 is strongly associated with increased risks of mental health problems later in life.
The research, which surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries, links early smartphone ownership to issues such as suicidal thoughts, aggression, low self-worth, and poor emotional regulation, especially among girls. Experts warn that excessive screen time and early exposure to social media can disrupt healthy childhood development and lead to long-term psychological harm. The findings have prompted calls for parents to delay giving smartphones to children and for policymakers to consider age restrictions and safer digital environments.
Parents and educators are urged to be vigilant about screen time and to prioritize offline activities for young children.
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