New research from the United States indicates that children who own smartphones by age 12 face increased health risks, including depression, obesity, and inadequate sleep. The study, which involved data from 10,588 young participants, suggests that the presence of a smartphone can significantly impact the well-being of children on the brink of adolescence.
According to Ran Barzilay, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the findings underscore the need for caution when deciding to provide children with smartphones. “Our findings suggest that we should view smartphones as a significant factor in teen health, approaching the decision to give a child a phone with care and considering potential impacts on their life and health,” Barzilay stated.
The data collected reflects the health status of participants at age 12 and highlights the differences in outcomes as children transition to age 13. Among those with smartphones, nearly 6.5 percent had received a diagnosis of depression, compared to 4.5 percent of their peers without phones. While the difference may appear small, it indicates a potential link worth further investigation.
Impact on Obesity and Sleep
The study also examined obesity rates among the participants. It found that approximately 18 percent of children with smartphones were classified as obese, compared to 12 percent of those without devices. Sleep patterns also showed a striking contrast; 47 percent of 12-year-olds who owned smartphones reported insufficient sleep—defined as less than nine hours per night—while only 31 percent of their non-phone-holding counterparts faced the same issue.
These health issues persisted into their teenage years. Children who acquired a smartphone by age 13 were more likely to report mental health challenges, including depression and sleep deprivation. However, the researchers noted that there was no significant increase in obesity risk over that year.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of smartphone use—such as fostering social connections and supporting educational opportunities—the researchers emphasized the importance of responsible usage. “For many teens, smartphones can play a constructive role by strengthening social connections, supporting learning, and providing access to information and resources that promote personal growth,” noted Barzilay. Families may view smartphones as essential for safety and communication, adding another layer of complexity to the discussion.
Further Research Needed
The study also highlights nuances in the data concerning depression. The metric measured any period of depression experienced by the child, meaning some diagnoses may have occurred prior to obtaining a smartphone. As an observational study, the research does not establish direct cause and effect but does indicate significant associations that warrant further exploration.
The findings align with existing knowledge regarding adults and smartphone usage, which suggests that these devices can contribute to increased stress and distraction. Future studies are necessary to explore how screen time and the types of applications used may influence these health outcomes, as well as the long-term effects during adolescence.
Barzilay concluded with a call to action for parents and guardians: “It’s critical for young people to have time away from their phones to engage in physical activity, which can protect against obesity and enhance mental health over time.” This research has been published in the journal Pediatrics, adding to the ongoing conversation about technology’s role in children’s health and well-being.
