Zach Rausch, lead researcher to Haidt and an associate research scientist at NYU-Stern School of Business, says kids who had access to social media and iPhones in elementary and middle school report higher levels of anxiety and depression.
"The biggest effects of social media happened during puberty, especially early puberty," he says.
To curb bullying, social comparison, and depression in adolescents, Haidt and Rausch crafted four suggestions:No smartphones for kids before high school — give them only flip phones in middle school.
No social media before age 16.
If you want to make a change today that will positively impact your child's health, Rausch says start by talking to your kids' friends' parents.
Persons:
Johnathan Haidt pinpoints, University's, Zach Rausch, Rausch
Organizations:
University's Stern School of Business, NYU, Stern School of Business
Locations:
New