Early Adoption of Smartphones Associated with Depression, Obesity, and Insufficient Sleep

A study of over 10,500 children found that early ownership of smartphones can lead to increased risk of depression, obesity, and interrupted sleep patterns. The study, “Smartphone Ownership, Age of Smartphone Acquisition, and Health Outcomes in Early Adolescence,” published in the January 2026 Pediatrics (published online Dec. 1), examined participants in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study, which collects annual data on U.S. youth, across 21 states. Researchers looked at the responses to questions regarding whether the youth owned a smartphone and tracked through the dataset at what age they were given one. As part of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study, participants were also screened for depression, obesity via body mass index, and whether or not they were getting a full nine hours of sleep per night. Data showed that the median age of smartphone ownership was 11. Researchers found that smartphone ownership at age 12 was found to be associated with depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep when compared to peers without smartphones. Researchers also found that among those with smartphones by age 12, younger age of smartphone acquisition was associated with increased risk of obesity and insufficient sleep but not depression. Overall, the authors state their results speak to a need for a concrete framework to advise families on early smartphone ownership. 

To request an embargoed copy of a study, contact AAP Public Affairs. For an interview, contact Kaitlyn Dvorink at [email protected] or Ran Barzilay at [email protected].