Home / Health / Smartphone at 12? Study Links Early Tech to Health Risks
Smartphone at 12? Study Links Early Tech to Health Risks
1 Dec
Summary
- Children with smartphones by age 12 risk depression, obesity, and poor sleep.
- Earlier smartphone access for kids under 12 increases health concerns.
- Study analyzed over 10,500 children in a long-term US brain development project.
New research indicates that children receiving a smartphone by age 12 may face increased risks of depression, obesity, and inadequate sleep. The study, which examined data from more than 10,500 children in the United States, found that earlier access to smartphones correlated with poorer health indicators.
Adolescence is a critical period for development, and even minor disruptions to sleep or mental health can have lasting consequences. While the study shows an association, not direct causation, experts suggest that early smartphone use might displace vital activities like in-person socialization, exercise, and sleep.
Experts emphasize that parents can trust their instincts and delay smartphone access until their child is more prepared. Taking steps like keeping devices out of bedrooms overnight can help mitigate some risks, even for children who already have smartphones.
