Summarised by Centrist
A global study of over 100,000 young people has found that those who got their first smartphone before age 13 are more likely to face mental health challenges in early adulthood.
These include suicidal thoughts, aggression, feelings of detachment, poor emotional control, and low self-worth.
The research points to early social media access as a major factor, along with risks like cyberbullying, disrupted sleep, and strained family relationships. Lead author Dr Tara Thiagarajan urged policymakers to consider restrictions on smartphone access for children under 13, similar to regulations on alcohol and tobacco.
The study, published in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, used a mental health scoring tool to measure well-being. It showed that younger age smartphone ownership correlated with lower scores, with symptoms worsening the earlier children received devices.
While the findings highlight serious concerns, Dr Thiagarajan noted that smartphones and social media are not the sole causes of declining youth mental health. She warned that waiting for absolute proof risks missing the chance to take preventive action.
Some countries, including New Zealand, have already imposed school restrictions on phone use. Experts suggest more education on digital literacy and stricter enforcement of age limits on social media platforms are needed to protect young minds.
Read more over at The Sanford Herald (paywalled)
