The Impact of Screen Time on Child and Teen Mood and Behaviors
Introduction:
In today's digital age, the influence of screen time on the mental health and behavior of children and adolescents is a growing concern. This blog delves into the negative effects of excessive screen time on mood and behaviors in young individuals, drawing insights from recent research. We explore how these findings relate to mental health and offer a perspective on managing screen time for healthier outcomes.
The Relationship Between Screen Time and ADHD Symptoms:
Study Overview A comprehensive study tracked nearly 4,000 Canadian high schoolers over five years. Researchers used advanced statistical models to examine how different types of screen engagement—like scrolling through social media, watching TV, gaming, and computer use—affected ADHD-related traits. These traits, including attention levels, impulsiveness, and memory, were evaluated yearly.
Key Discoveries The study found that more screen time could make ADHD symptoms worse within the same year. Impulsivity stood out as a key factor linking screen time to these symptoms. Interestingly, social media had a unique, lasting effect on behavior through impulsiveness. While social media, TV, and video games all had clear ties to ADHD symptoms, computer use did not show a direct link.
Screen Time During COVID-19 and Its Effects on Children with ADHD:
Study Insights The pandemic lockdown led to a study of 90 children with ADHD, which showed that fun screen time went hand-in-hand with more severe ADHD symptoms. In contrast, screen time for schoolwork didn't have this effect. This finding underscores the importance of balancing screen time, particularly to help children with ADHD avoid an increase in symptoms.
Association of Screen Time With Behavioral Problems in Children:
Research Findings A detailed review of multiple studies focused on children 12 and under revealed that too much screen time is significantly connected to both outward (like aggression and lack of attention) and inward (such as anxiety and sadness) behavioral problems. This evidence points to the broader impact of screen time on children's behavior, highlighting the importance of monitoring and managing their screen use.
In conclusion, these studies collectively highlight the negative impact of excessive screen time on the mood and behaviors of children and adolescents, particularly those with ADHD. At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, these findings enable us to provide more holistic and research-backed care. By understanding the nuances of how screen time affects mental health, we can better guide our patients and their families towards healthier screen use practices, incorporating this knowledge into our comprehensive treatment plans.
What can be done?
To effectively limit social media and video game time in children, parents can adopt several tried and true approaches (and yes, we know, these are often easier said than done! David Feeny MA, Ed.D, LBS is a therapist dedicated to collaborating virtually with parents to develop and execute customized strategies that cater to the unique requirements of their children):
Set Clear Boundaries and Guidelines: Establish specific times when screen use is allowed and ensure these do not interfere with essential activities like sleep, homework, and family time. For example, no screen time during meals or an hour before bedtime.
Encourage Alternative Activities: Promote engagement in outdoor play, sports, creative hobbies, and other non-screen activities. This not only limits screen time but also supports physical health and social development.
Use Technology Tools: Leverage parental controls and apps that help monitor and limit screen time. These tools can set time limits on specific apps or games and block access during certain hours.
Model Healthy Screen Use: Parents should lead by example by moderating their own screen time and engaging in alternative activities, demonstrating a balanced approach to technology use.
Reward System: Implement a reward system where children earn screen time through positive behaviors, such as completing chores or homework. This approach encourages responsibility and moderation.
Open Communication: Discuss the reasons for screen time limits with your children, focusing on the benefits of diverse activities and the potential negative effects of excessive screen use. Encourage them to reflect on their screen habits and suggest ways they can self-regulate.
Create a Family Media Plan: Collaboratively develop a family media plan that outlines the rules around screen use, including what types of media are appropriate, how much screen time is allowed, and what areas of the home are screen-free zones.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review and adjust screen time rules as needed, taking into account your child's age, maturity level, and changing circumstances. Be flexible but consistent in enforcing these rules.
By combining these approaches with a supportive home environment, parents can help their children develop a balanced relationship with technology, ensuring that screen time contributes positively to their growth and development.
