Majority of Kids in Germany Possess Mobile Devices According to Poll
In a growing concern, experts and organizations worldwide are issuing warnings against the early use of smartphones among children, particularly before the age of 13. Research indicates a strong link between early smartphone use and significant negative mental health consequences for young users.
A large global study analyzing data from over 100,000 young adults (ages 18-24) has revealed some concerning findings. The earlier a child receives a smartphone, the worse their mental health outcomes tend to be in early adulthood. This decline in mental well-being scores is particularly steep as the age of first smartphone use decreases.
Gender differences also emerge in these findings. Girls report worse outcomes in self-image, confidence, and emotional resilience, while boys experience less calmness, stability, and empathy. Early exposure to smartphones is linked to increased exposure to social media, cyberbullying, disrupted sleep, and deteriorating family relationships, which mediate these harmful effects.
To mitigate these risks, experts and organizations recommend several measures. Delaying smartphone ownership and social media exposure until at least age 13 is advised, as children's brains and emotional development are not ready before this age for the psychological impacts of social media and device use.
Parents and caregivers should also set parental controls, establish time limits, and avoid smartphone use close to bedtime. Encouraging more outdoor activities and reduced screen time can support emotional and social health.
Urgent action and policy measures are needed to protect the developing minds of children in the digital age, emphasizing a cautious and mindful introduction of personal technology use.
Surveys in Germany and France reveal that many parents are giving their children smartphones too early. In France, children are not recommended to use social networks until they are 18 years old. In Germany, the age at which children receive their first smartphone is increasing, but still, the majority of children under the age of 12 already have their own smartphone.
The consensus is that early smartphone introduction poses serious mental health risks. Delaying exposure combined with active parental management is advised to safeguard children's psychological well-being.
Home-and-garden stores are increasingly selling gadgets that help parents set and enforce screen time limits on smartphones, of a kind used by children. This shift in lifestyle, favouring technology over traditional family activities, raises questions about parents' awareness of the consequences of early smartphone use on their children's mental health. The urge to keep up with the latest gadgets could inadvertently be affecting children's emotional resilience and social well-being.
