A pediatrician recently asked one of Emily Harrison’s children a logical question during pre-exam paperwork: Do you have a smartphone?
Doctors often ask children practical questions, such as whether they’re getting enough sleep, have seen changes in their appetites or have started playing sports. These days, they may ask about anxiety or depression.
A smartphone question makes sense after years of research into how these devices, and social media programs, affect mental and physical health. The question is why are church leaders not discussing these issues in sermons and education programs, said Harrison, author of the Dear Christian Parent online newsletter.
“This is a safety issue, yet we’re hesitant to say it’s a safety issue,” she said, reached by Zoom.
Mental health professionals and parents say they're worried about children spending too much time on devices. What we know about potential harm and how to start making changes.https://t.co/LvDFwuypix pic.twitter.com/YzF5BmmbwC
— WMUR TV (@WMUR9) July 8, 2026
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