Introduction to the Debate
It’s the age-old debate: At what age should children get cell phones? The downsides of too much screen time are well-documented, with increased anxiety, eyestrain, and poor attention span among the main problems. Additionally, there are security threats such as cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content.
New Research Findings
New research suggests the age at which cell phones can be most harmful to young people’s health. The study found that those who had cell phones before age 12 had higher rates of depression, obesity, and poor sleep habits than those who did not own cell phones. And the younger children were when they got a phone, the greater their risk of obesity and sleep deprivation.
Study Details
Researchers evaluated data from over 10,500 children who took part in the Study of adolescent brain cognitive development – the latest and most comprehensive long-term look at children’s brain development. While research doesn’t prove that acquiring a phone at a young age directly causes these consequences, the results, along with previous studies, suggest that it could lead to less socialization, exercise, and sleep.
Impact on Children’s Health
A 2023 study found that among 11- and 12-year-olds who had an electronic device in their bedroom, nearly 17% were woken up by notifications. Meanwhile, more than 80% of children between the ages of 11 and 17 are not getting the recommended amount of daily physical activity, partly due to increased fixation on screens. Lack of exercise can lead to impaired health and social behavior in children.
Long-term Effects
Because puberty is an essential period of growth, these changes can have long-term effects on mental and physical health, according to researchers. "If you give your child a phone, you need to view it as something that is important to the child’s health – and act accordingly," said a child and adolescent psychiatrist.
Parental Considerations
A parent survey from October found that most children between the ages of 11 and 12 have a smartphone so that their parents can quickly reach them. Notably, current research is divided on how much cell phone use among children actually impacts their health, with some studies finding minimal effects.
Expert Recommendations
Although there is no "right age" to get your child a cell phone, some experts recommend taking a case-by-case approach and determining how responsible and emotionally mature your child is. Parents should also be mindful of their own screen time, as long-term use of technology can have a negative impact on babies and toddlers, including their social behavior.
Conclusion
More and more parents are choosing to keep their children away from phones to limit any negative effects. According to a 2024 survey, up to three-quarters of Generation Z blame social media for worsening their mental health, reporting that using popular apps made them feel more anxious and stressed.
