By Jeanne Neuwirth, LCSW
Thinking about giving your child a smartphone? You’re not alone. Many families consider smartphones as holiday gifts, and children are receiving them at younger and younger ages. Before making this decision, it may be helpful to consider what current research and mental health experts are saying about smartphones, social media, and youth well-being.
A recent study published by Pediatrics suggests that early smartphone use may be associated with increased mental health and physical health risks. The study found that children who received smartphones by age 12 were at higher risk for depression, sleep difficulties, and obesity. Researchers also noted that the younger a child was when they received a smartphone, the greater the associated risk.
In addition, mental health professionals are increasingly discussing the broader impact of social media on youth. In the Therapist Uncensored podcast episode “Smartphones: The Truth About Their Impact on Mental Health” (Episode 269), psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge explores how the rise of smartphones and social media parallels significant increases in anxiety, depression, and self-harm among adolescents. Dr. Twenge notes that emergency room admissions for self-harm among 10–14-year-olds have increased fivefold, and among 15–19-year-olds have doubled, after remaining relatively stable for many years prior to widespread smartphone use.
Dr. Twenge also authored 10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World: How Parents Can Stop Smartphones, Social Media, and Gaming from Taking Over Their Children’s Lives, which offers practical guidance for families navigating technology use.
For families whose children already have smartphones, there is encouraging evidence that small changes can make a difference. A study published in JAMA Network Open found that reducing social media use for just one week was associated with improved mental health outcomes in young adults, suggesting that setting limits—even temporarily—may be beneficial.
Every family’s situation is different, and smartphones can offer benefits when used thoughtfully and with clear boundaries. However, this growing body of research highlights the importance of making informed, intentional decisions about when—and how—children access smartphones and social media.
Before making this impactful choice, parents are encouraged to weigh both the risks and benefits, consider their child’s developmental readiness, and explore ways to support healthy technology habits from the start.
Tips for Families Considering Smartphones
Before giving your child a smartphone, Pathways encourages families to pause and plan. Consider the following:
- Delay when possible. Research suggests that waiting until children are developmentally ready may reduce mental health risks.
- Start with limits. If a smartphone is introduced, set clear boundaries around screen time, social media use, and phone-free times (especially before bed).
- Talk early and often. Keep open conversations about online safety, peer pressure, and how social media can impact mood and self-esteem.
- Model healthy habits. Children take cues from adults, demonstrating that balanced technology use matters.
- Check in emotionally. Pay attention to changes in sleep, mood, anxiety, or social withdrawal, and reach out for support if concerns arise.
- Remember: you can reset. It’s okay to revisit rules, take breaks from social media, or adjust access if something isn’t working.
At Pathways, we support families in making informed, thoughtful decisions that promote children’s mental health, safety, and overall well-being, both online and offline.