Smartphones at 12 Linked to Eating Disorder Risk

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open indicates a significant link between smartphone ownership at age 12 and increased risk of developing eating disorder symptoms by age 14. The research surveyed almost 9,000 adolescents across the United States, finding that 70% of 12-year-olds possessed their own phones.

Of those with phones at age 12, 24% reported at least one eating disorder symptom by age 14. This contrasts with less than 16% of teens who did not have a smartphone at age 12 experiencing similar issues two years later.

Lead author Dr. Jason Nagata explained that smartphones expose young people to a world of appearance-focused content, potentially fostering unhealthy eating behaviors. He stressed the importance of parental awareness regarding the digital exposures accompanying smartphone use.

Experts suggest that delaying smartphone access for children, potentially by six months to a year, may benefit their mental health. When children do receive phones, a gradual introduction to social media and establishing clear ground rules are advised.

Additional recommendations for parents include limiting app downloads, keeping phones out of bedrooms, maintaining open conversations about online content, and observing changes in eating habits or body talk. Phones should ideally be kept away from the dinner table, which can serve as an opportunity to discuss digital use.