Smartphone use by preteens associated with depression, obesity, and sleep deprivation

Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Research conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics indicates that children who own and frequently use smartphones before their teenage years face a higher likelihood of depression, obesity, and sleep deprivation. The study, part of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study and set to appear in the January issue of Pediatrics, analyzed over 10,000 young adolescents.

Investigators compared children who received smartphones before turning 12 with those who obtained their first phone as teenagers. Results showed that early smartphone owners were 31% more likely to experience depression, 40% more prone to obesity, and 62% more likely to suffer from insufficient sleep compared to their peers.

"Our results highlight the urgent need for clear guidelines on smartphone ownership among children and preteens to promote healthier development," the researchers stated.

The findings were released just a day prior to a session of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which is reviewing 19 bills aimed at safeguarding childrens safety and privacy online. One key bill under discussion is the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which previously passed the Senate but did not pass in the House.

According to the study, children who had smartphones but were also subject to parental monitoring and limits on screen time demonstrated better outcomes. While early phone ownership is linked to higher rates of depression, obesity, and sleep issues, the study emphasizes that these findings provide "essential insights to guide parents on adolescent smartphone use and inform public policies that protect youth."

"It is also important to recognize that some youths who do not have smartphones face their own challenges, highlighting the necessity to support families navigating this transition and ensuring children benefit from appropriate smartphone access," the study concluded.

Author: Sophia Brooks