7 Jul 2023

Kids spending one-third of spare time on phones: new study

From Morning Report, 7:52 am on 7 July 2023

Obesity, poor sleep and poor mental wellbeing are just some of the potential problems for children who spend too much time staring at their phones, according to research published today in the New Zealand Medical Journal.

The new study shows that the average twelve-year-old spends at least a third of their spare time on their phone, and potential physical problems aren't the only issue.

The University of Otago study notes that kids are being exposed to ads for vaping, alcohol, gambling and junk food.

Louise Signal, a professor of public health at the University of Otago, joined Corin Dann in studio.