Dennis Gabriel 
Young children using smartphones linked to mental health risks
ABUJA, Nigeria – A major global study warns that giving smartphones to children before age 13 may trigger lifelong mental health struggles.
Recently published in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, the study analysed 100,000 young people and found early smartphone use is linked to suicidal thoughts, aggression, poor self-worth, and detachment from reality.
Neuroscientist and founder of Sapien Labs, Dr Tara Thiagarajan, said: “Our evidence shows profound shifts in mind health from early smartphone and social media access, including aggression and suicidal thoughts with deep societal consequences.”
Social media explains about 40% of the risks, with cyberbullying, poor sleep, and strained family ties also contributing.
Girls showed lower resilience, while boys scored lower on empathy.
Countries like France and New Zealand have restricted phones in schools, while New York has announced a statewide classroom ban.
Researchers are urging governments to restrict use for under-13s, strengthen digital literacy, and hold tech firms accountable.
“Smartphones are an early gateway into AI-driven digital environments,” Thiagarajan warned. “Waiting for absolute proof risks missing the prevention window.”
About the Author
Chukwu Obinna 
Mirian Gom 
Korede Abdullah 