GoKawiilStudy links early smartphone ownership to higher eating disorder rates in teens
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that children who owned a smartphone by age 12 were more likely to report eating disorder symptoms by age 14 than those without one. Researchers analyzed a large US cognitive development survey covering over 6,200 adolescents, finding that 24% of early phone owners reported at least one eating disorder symptom by 14, compared with 16% of non-owners.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The findings add to growing concern among researchers about how early social media exposure through smartphones may shape body image and eating habits during a critical developmental period. Lead author Jason Nagata suggests the risk lies less in the device itself and more in the appearance-focused content it grants access to, though the study shows correlation rather than proven causation. This could inform future parental guidance and policy debates over age limits for smartphone and social media access.
- 70% of surveyed 12-year-olds already owned a smartphone.
- 24% of early phone owners reported eating disorder symptoms by age 14, versus 16% of non-owners.
- Researchers point to social media exposure, not the device itself, as the likely driving factor.
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Published there as: “Horrifying Research Finds What Happens to 12-Year-Olds Who Get Smart Phones”
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