Smartphone study: Preteens with devices more likely to develop eating disorders by 14

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. Related video above: Eating disorders on the rise in the US; Experts discuss myths and treatment 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.