12-year-olds with smartphones are more likely to develop eating disorders by 14 - KSL News
A new study published in JAMA Network Open indicates that children who own smartphones by age 12 are more prone to developing eating disorder symptoms by age 14. Lead author Dr. Jason Nagata suggests that early access to appearance-focused content and social media on smartphones contributes to these unhealthy behaviors. The research, involving nearly 9,000 adolescents, highlights the importance for parents to consider the timing of smartphone introduction.
Why it matters
This study provides critical insights for parents and educators on the potential negative impacts of early smartphone use on adolescent mental health, particularly regarding eating disorders, prompting a reevaluation of digital device policies for young children.
SAN FRANCISCO — Kids who have their own smartphones at age 12 are more likely to develop eating disorder symptoms than their peers without the devices, according to a new study.The research, published Friday in the medical journal JAMA Network Open, comes from a wide-ranging survey of nearly 9,000 adolescents across the United States."A smartphone can put a world of appearance-focused content in a young person's pocket," exposing them to images and messages that may foster unhealthy eating behaviors, said Dr. Jason Nagata, the study's lead author. "It's important for parents to be aware that getting a smartphone isn't just about the device.
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