The Impact of Prolonged Electronic Screen Use Extensive research on screen use by children and adolescents has provided a more complete understanding of the associated risks and benefits. Despite the lack of robust longitudinal studies, experts are addressing this crucial issue by focusing on the type of content consumed, the environment surrounding screen time, and building long-term studies.
Current evidence suggests that younger children may not fully benefit from the content of screens, although as they grow, the information acquired may be significant, albeit with the risk of sedentary lifestyle. Complete abstinence can have negative consequences for older children and adolescents. Questions persist about the amount of screen time considered excessive and the effects of various activities.
Amid the debate about screen time, the rapid evolution of this problem in recent years stands out. Organizations like the WHO and AAP have issued recommendations, such as avoiding screen time for children under 2 years old and limiting screen time for children ages 2 to 5 years old. However, these guidelines have come under fire due to correlation and self-reporting in much of the research. The difficulty in differentiating between various types of screen time and the lack of studies isolating these effects are additional challenges.
Research supports limiting screen time for infants and toddlers, showing that more time at these ages is associated with poor performance on developmental tests. Although baby media has been on the market, screens are not effective as teaching tools for this age and can displace face-to-face interactions essential for learning. Young children appear to have difficulty learning from videos, and evidence suggests that video calls can also be confusing for them, requiring the help of a physically present adult. Instead, children ages 3 to 5 can benefit from thoughtfully designed programs, showing improvements in academic and emotional skills.
As children grow, their exposure to screens with diverse content increases, according to a report from Common Sense Media. Children ages 8 to 12 in the U.S. spend an average of 4 hours and 44 minutes a day in front of screens, while teens ages 13 to 18 spend an average of 7 hours and 22 minutes a day. Socioeconomic disparity also influences media use, with children from high-income families using less screen time. Concerns about neighborhood safety can lead to more screen time in low-income families.
Correlational studies suggest that excessive screen time in preteens and adolescents is associated with lower cognitive scores and greater impulsivity, although more research is needed to establish causal relationships. Stronger associations include the link between screen time and obesity, as well as depressive symptoms. However, the evidence is mixed on other mental health and wellbeing issues related to screen time.
A study led by psychologists Amy Orben, PhD, of the University of Cambridge, and Andrew Przybylski, PhD, of the University of Oxford, using time-use diaries, found that screen time had no effects notable in the psychological well-being of adolescents. However, other research suggests complicated relationships between screen time and well-being.
A new longitudinal data set called the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study could provide more clarity on this issue. Meanwhile, some experts recommend a conscious approach to media and the importance of developing self-regulation skills in children. Tools like the Family Assessment of Screen Time (FAST) and the AAP Family Media Use Plan can help set limits and negotiate boundaries on screen use. Additionally, the importance of parents watching media with their children, maintaining open communication about the content and promoting a healthy relationship around media is highlighted.
In conclusion, the widespread use of electronic screens poses challenges for the visual health of children and adolescents, and strategies are required to minimize visual fatigue and other related problems. Additionally, awareness of working distance, ambient lighting, and the need for periodic visual breaks is crucial to mitigate negative effects on the visual system. The rapid evolution of technology further complicates the formulation of recommendations supported by scientific evidence, and it is imperative that parents, educators and health professionals work together to address this ever-changing challenge.
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