New research warns that smartphone use before age 13 may harm children’s mental health, linking it to suicidal thoughts, poor emotional control, low self-esteem, and detachment—especially in girls.
The earlier children had smartphones, the greater the negative impact on their well-being.
The study links these effects to early exposure to social media, sleep loss, cyberbullying, and family strain. The findings are based on self-reported data from nearly 2 million people across 163 countries.
Researchers Call for Global Limits on Kids’ Smartphone and Social Media Use
The results were so concerning that researchers urged global measures to restrict smartphone and social media access for children under 13.
“This calls for urgent limits and stricter regulation of kids’ digital environments,” said lead author Tara Thiagarajan of Sapien Labs.
Thiagarajan of Arlington, Virginia, said this study looked beyond anxiety and depression, highlighting strong effects on emotional regulation and self-esteem.
Study Limitations Include Self-Reported Data and Evolving Technology Factors
However, she noted limitations: the self-reported data weren’t verified, and the study couldn’t identify which types of smartphone use caused the effects or how they might change over time.
Despite the study’s limitations, it has firmly convinced me that giving children smartphones before age 13 is a bad idea. When speaking with parents, I recommend delaying social media until at least age 16. UK research links its use during puberty to lower life satisfaction a year later.
Expert Jonathan Haidt Urges Delaying Social Media Use Until Age 16
Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt also recommends delaying children’s social media use until age 16, as discussed in his bestselling book The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.
Although waiting that long might feel difficult, it becomes more manageable if parents of a child’s friends agree together to hold off on allowing social media use until that age.
In my nationwide talks on how social media affects women and girls, I’ve never encountered a parent eager for their child to join social platforms. Most are concerned their child will miss out socially if others are already online—highlighting the importance of collective action among parents.
Parent Pledges Aim to Delay Smartphone Use Through Eighth Grade
Groups like Wait Until 8th offer pledges that families can sign together, committing to delay smartphone use until the end of eighth grade. Similar initiatives are being launched by other organizations as well.
“See if a group exists in your community—and if not, consider starting one,” said Melissa Greenberg, a clinical psychologist not involved in the study. “Even if the topic isn’t being openly discussed, others may feel relieved if you bring it up.”
Thiagarajan added that parents could also seek out schools with stricter smartphone policies or advocate for stronger rules in their children’s current schools.
Researchers Stress Need for Collective Action Beyond Individual Efforts
However, the researchers emphasized that individual efforts alone aren’t enough. Even if I delay social media for my daughters and their friends, they may still be exposed through other kids at school or activities.
That’s why, Thiagarajan noted, parents should also consider engaging more actively in public discussions and regulatory efforts around children’s digital access.
If your child started using a phone before age 13 or you’re concerned about the possible effects, there’s no need to panic, said Greenberg.
“If you’re worried but haven’t observed any symptoms, it’s still helpful to talk to your child,” she said. Let them know some people face anxiety, low self-esteem, or strong emotions—and help is available if needed. Encourage them to come to you if they’re struggling.”
If you notice signs of distress, Greenberg recommends consulting a licensed mental health professional.
How Parents Can Adjust Smartphone Use
Already given your child a phone? Don’t feel stuck, she said—you can still make changes if current habits aren’t working. Consider parental controls, switching to a flip phone, or deleting certain apps.
While kids may resist, she emphasized that parents should still do what’s best for their child’s well-being.
Greenberg advised using a simple script: “When we gave you your phone, we didn’t realize how it might affect you.” Now that more research is available from scientists and doctors, we’ve learned a lot. Because of that, we need to make some changes to support your health and well-being.”
If kids react emotionally, respond with empathy, Greenberg advised, noting that even adults struggle with change. She suggested parents share their own smartphone challenges to foster connection and show it’s a common issue.
Now aware of the risks, parents can take action—especially by talking with others in their community to collectively delay device use until children are older.
Read the original article on: Cnnbrasil
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