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New Study Reveals Risks to Mental Health of Children and Adolescents Receiving Cell Phones Before Age 13, Mobilizing Experts and Leading to Calls for Restrictions in Various Countries. See What is Being Debated Globally on the Topic.
The use of cell phones before the age of 13 can cause negative impacts on the mental health of children and adolescents, according to a recent global study that mobilized specialists and expanded the debate on urgent restrictions in several countries.
The research, conducted by Sapien Labs, analyzed data from approximately two million people in 163 countries and indicates that early access to smartphones is linked to an increase in symptoms such as suicidal thoughts, difficulties in emotional regulation, decreased self-esteem, and detachment from reality, especially among girls.
These results led researchers to advocate for stricter limits on the use of cell phones and social media by pre-adolescents.
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The study revealed that the earlier a child receives a smartphone, the greater the likelihood of developing mental health problems and the lower the reported well-being in adolescence.
For each year earlier a person starts using smartphones, mental health indicators tend to show more concerning results.
Risks of Early Access to Cell Phones
Why Can Early Access to Cell Phones Be So Harmful?
According to the authors of the study, contact with electronic devices before age 13 favors increased time on social media, sleep disturbances, exposure to cyberbullying, and family conflicts.
These combined factors directly impact the ability to concentrate, the quality of interpersonal relationships, and the emotional development of young people.
Another point highlighted by the research is the relationship between early cell phone use and the emergence of feelings of inadequacy and isolation.
Many young people report difficulties in coping with frustrations and real-life challenges after long periods of exposure to the digital environment without adequate supervision.
Clinical psychologist Melissa Greenberg, from the Princeton Psychotherapy Center in New Jersey, emphasizes that “parents should look for signs of anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional changes, seeking professional guidance if these symptoms manifest.”
Positive Effects of Restrictions in Schools
Diverse countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, have been adopting policies to restrict the use of cell phones in schools.
According to reports from educators, the ban has resulted in notable improvements in students’ concentration abilities and the strengthening of sociability among peers.
These data reinforce specialists’ arguments for limiting children’s and teenagers’ access to smartphones during school hours.
Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, an international authority on the topic, highlights in his book “The Anxious Generation” that the use of social media during puberty is associated with a decline in life satisfaction and an increase in mental illnesses.
Research conducted in the United Kingdom confirms this relationship, indicating that young people’s satisfaction with their own lives decreases one year after the onset of intensive social media use.
Recommendations from Experts and Mobilization of Parents
In light of the evidence, international organizations and parent groups are mobilizing to create collective commitments.
Initiatives such as the “Wait Until 8th” group in the United States encourage families to delay children’s access to smartphones until at least the end of middle school, promoting agreements among parents of the same school community.
Experts suggest that ideally, social media use should be restricted until at least age 16.
Although many parents fear that their children will become socially isolated, experience shows that dialogue and cooperation among families can facilitate the adoption of these measures.
“Check if there is a similar commitment in your community and if not, consider starting a mobilization,” advises Greenberg.
In addition to seeking support from other parents, it is advisable to choose schools with clear policies on the use of electronic devices or to push for stricter regulations in educational institutions.
The lead author of the study, Tara Thiagarajan, emphasizes the need for “urgent actions to limit children’s access to the digital environment” and the importance of involving families in public debates on regulation.
What to Do If the Child Already Uses a Cell Phone?
For parents who have already given a cell phone to their children before age 13, experts advise not to panic.
Changes can be made at any time.
Options like enabling parental controls, switching the smartphone for a simpler model, or removing apps and features can help reduce risks.
If the child shows resistance, an open dialogue should be initiated, explaining the reasons for the changes and emphasizing concern for their well-being.
“When we gave you the smartphone, we didn’t have all the information about the potential impacts. Today, we know more and want to do what is healthiest,” is a suggested approach by Greenberg for parents facing difficulties in limiting cell phone use.
If symptoms such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or behavioral changes are observed, seeking support from qualified professionals is essential.
Experts also recommend openly discussing mental health and providing ongoing support, emphasizing that help is available whenever needed.
The Brazilian Scenario and the Collective Challenge
In Brazil, the debate about the use of cell phones by children and adolescents has gained traction among families, schools, and mental health professionals.
National studies track global trends and reinforce the need for preventive measures, such as delaying smartphone use and restricting early access to social media.
With the advance of technologies, specialists warn about the importance of parental supervision and the creation of safer digital environments.
The collective responsibility, involving families, schools, and authorities, is seen as essential to ensure the healthy development of future generations.
What Would Be the Consequences for the Future If Brazil Adopted a National Law Prohibiting Cell Phone Use for Children Under 13?
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