JAMA Pediatrics

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that the use of AI chatbots for mental health advice among young people increased by over 40% in a year, rising from 1 in 8 to 1 in 5. The article argues that this trend highlights the urgent need for regulations to protect adolescents using AI for mental health support.

A study found that over 75% of parents use media during family meals, with children aged 4-10 also engaging in media use nearly 70% of the time. The research, published in JAMA Pediatrics, highlights the prevalence of smartphone and TV use during shared family meals, which may hinder emotional connections despite the known benefits of family dining.

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found 20% of youths aged 12 to 21 use AI chatbots for mental health advice, with 92% finding it helpful. Experts warn chatbots lack the ability to challenge users or identify concerning behaviors, and a new Colorado law aims to regulate chatbots to prevent harmful interactions with minors.

A new study reveals that 20% of U.S. teens aged 12-21 use AI chatbots for mental health advice, with 92% finding it somewhat or very helpful. Dr. William Leever warns that AI chatbots may replace real human support and advocates for parental guidance through 'co-prompting' and setting boundaries. A Common Sense Media survey also found nearly half of children lack conversations with parents about AI safety.

Teens are sleeping less than ever, with studies showing 37% of 12-13-year-olds and 22% of 18-19-year-olds getting seven or more hours of sleep nightly—the lowest rates in 30 years. Experts suggest pushing back school start times, like at Mount Desert Island High School in Maine, could improve teen sleep, health, and academic performance. Research links insufficient sleep to chronic disease risks and negative outcomes, while smartphone use at night exacerbates the issue.

Researchers are calling for a study on paternal deaths, citing a recent paper that found fatherhood can be protective. A pilot study in Georgia reported nearly 800 deaths among fathers in the first five years of fatherhood. The study aims to raise awareness about paternal health.

The CDC's decision to stop recommending the hepatitis B vaccine for infants within 24 hours of birth may result in hundreds of new infections, worse health outcomes, and millions in additional costs, according to research published in JAMA Pediatrics. The policy change, approved in December, reverses a longstanding practice.