Study Finds Early Smartphone Access Linked to Poor Mental Health in Young Adults

A recent study published in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities suggests that giving children smartphones before the age of 13 may negatively impact their mental health. Researchers found that individuals who received their first smartphone at 12 or younger had higher chances of experiencing suicidal thoughts, aggression, detachment from reality, poor emotional regulation, and low self-worth in early adulthood. Factors such as exposure to toxic social media, cyberbullying, disrupted sleep, and strained family relationships were identified as contributors to these mental health issues. The study emphasizes the need for policymakers to consider regulations on smartphone access for children under 13 and advocate for digital literacy education. (Upi)