Children who get their own smartphones at age 12 may face a higher risk of developing eating disorder symptoms by age 14, according to a new study published in JAMA Network Open.
The research examined data from nearly 9,000 adolescents in the United States and focused on whether the age at which children began using smartphones was associated with later disordered eating symptoms.
Researchers noted that smartphones can give children easy access to appearance-focused content, including images and messages that may contribute to unhealthy attitudes toward food and body image. The findings add to previous research examining the relationship between digital media use and young people's mental health and eating behaviours.
Earlier studies have linked screen and social media use with outcomes such as depression and lower self-esteem. Research from the same group has also found associations between screen time and binge eating.
The latest study differs by focusing on the age when children first receive smartphones rather than simply measuring how many hours they spend using them. This distinction may be important because younger users can gain access to a wide range of online content at an earlier stage of development.
However, the findings show an association and do not establish that receiving a smartphone directly causes eating disorders. Other factors in children's lives may also influence their mental health and eating behaviours.
The researchers' findings highlight why parents may want to consider not only how much children use smartphones, but also the age at which they receive personal devices and the type of content they can access.
