A sweeping global study has found that children who receive smartphones before the age of 13 are at significantly higher risk for mental health problems later in life.
The research, which surveyed millions across 160 countries, links early smartphone ownership 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 healthy brain development, emotional regulation, and sleep patterns.
The findings have prompted scientists and mental health professionals to urge parents to delay giving smartphones to children until at least age 13. Calls for stricter guidelines and greater digital literacy education are growing as concerns mount over the long-term impact of early smartphone use on young minds.
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