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 exposure to smartphones and social media is especially harmful for girls. Experts warn that increased screen time disrupts sleep, impairs social development, and can lead to addictive behaviors.
As a result, scientists and health professionals are urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children until at least age 13. The findings have sparked renewed calls for stricter guidelines and even bans on smartphone and social media use for preteens.
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