UCLA study finds children with personal phones score lower on reading comprehension tests

UCLA researchers reported a correlation between cell‑phone ownership and reading comprehension among schoolchildren. The analysis compared students who possessed personal phones with peers who did not. Results showed that phone‑owning children scored lower on standardized reading tests. The study controlled for variables such as age and socioeconomic status. Researchers suggested that device use may detract from time spent reading. The findings raise concerns about the impact of early mobile‑phone exposure on literacy. The team recommends parents monitor phone usage and encourage reading habits. Further research is planned to explore causal mechanisms behind the observed gap.