Early Smartphone Use Linked to Increased Eating Disorder Symptoms in Teens
Summarized from Ynetnews by baba
A study found that children owning a smartphone at age 12 had a 49% higher risk of developing eating disorder symptoms by age 14. The research analyzed data from nearly 9,000 adolescents and identified associations with binge eating and compensatory behaviors. Experts, including Shirel Tirosh from Israel, noted that constant, private access to appearance-focused content and algorithms contribute to the risk. While not proving causation, the findings highlight the need for parental supervision and boundaries regarding early smartphone use.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Children with smartphones at age 12 showed a 49% higher risk of eating disorder symptoms by age 14.
- The study analyzed data from 8,957 participants in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study.
- Early smartphone owners had a 67% higher risk of binge eating and 50% higher risk of compensatory behaviors.
- Constant, private access to appearance-focused content and algorithms are cited as contributing factors.
- In Israel, children often receive smartphones much younger, raising earlier exposure concerns.
- Experts recommend parental controls, boundaries, and open communication to mitigate risks.
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