Brazil: Survey shows high disapproval of mobile phone use by young children

A survey by Instituto Locomotiva reveals that 82% of Brazilian adults disapprove of mobile phone use by children under the age of three. Among those aged four to seven, opposition to phone use stands at 75%. While 52% of respondents accept children receiving their own device by age 12, there is strong support for technology use among adolescents aged 13 to 17, reaching 88%.

The data highlights a perceived shift in childhood habits, with 83% of respondents noting that children today prefer screens, such as phones and televisions, over playing outdoors. This trend is reflected in international studies cited, including research in Indonesia and China, which show significant daily screen exposure among preschool-aged children.

In Brazil, the Digital Statute of Children and Adolescents, which entered into force this year, establishes protections for minors. This includes a requirement that users under 16 may only access social media if their account is linked to a legal guardian.