Can "screen time" for kids lead to technology addiction?
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Nov 8, 2024
,
02:11 p.m.
ET
The use of screen time and technology in children has been a popular topic in recent years. A multitude of studies have been conducted on the potential negative impact of screen time and the physical and emotional changes in kids that can result. It is therefore important for parents to know what the age-appropriate time limits on screens are and the potential risks involved.
Dangers of screen time and early technology exposure for kids
There are numerous studies that have evaluated the effects of screen time and early technology exposure in children. An excess of screen time can affect a child's physical and emotional health if it is not monitored and used appropriately.
Screen time can also lead to a reduction of physical activity in kids and increase their risk of obesity. An increase in screen time or social media use may also have negative impacts on kids' social skills. Technology use in children has also been linked to a decline in ability to focus on tasks, reduce patience, delay speech and inhibit learning. Screen use prior to bedtime has also been found to negatively affect children's sleep habits.
Are kids who use technology at a young age more likely to deal with addiction?
Screen time at a young age can lead to a multitude of social, emotional and behavioral issues as children get older. In 1970, the average age a child was introduced to technology was four years old, in today’s world the average age is only four months old.
When a child is exposed to screens and their screen time is largely unregulated and consistent, it can impact their brain development. Kids who frequently use technology are at a higher risk for changes in the structure and connectivity in their brains, including stunting their neural development. This can lead to a screen dependency or technology addiction.
For some parents, screen time has also become a way to help calm their kids or reduce their boredom, which can lead to a more constant desire for instant gratification and dopamine hits with a reduced capacity to self-soothe and manage their emotions.
How much screen time is safe for kids and teenagers?
While there is plenty of research that speaks to the negative impact screen time can have on kids, experts have narrowed down what types of digital content can be beneficial for kids and the time limits parents should be mindful of as their child ages. Shows that are designed to teach children certain topics such as numbers, colors, letters, shapes, spatial size and school readiness can be beneficial in age appropriate doses.
Age specific screen time recommendations, per child behavioral expert Dr. Jennifer Cross:
18 Months and younger: Avoid screen time except video chatting with friends or family
18-24 Months: Under 1 hour of high-quality learning programming
2-5 Years: 1 hour of high-quality programming that is co-viewed with parents
6-12 Years: Limit to no more than 2 hours a day, and parents should be aware of what is being viewed
Teenagers: Set parental time limits on devices and frequently check their screen use and the content they are viewing. Set time daily for media-free moments, such as dinner, mornings or before bed.
What is technology addiction?
Technology addiction, also known as digital or internet addiction, is the compulsive and excessive need to use digital devices, such as smartphones, tablets, the internet and social media. The compulsive overuse of technology can lead to a negative impact on someone's relationships, job, mental and physical health. A recent study found that the average person spends nine hours a day on their phone and unlocks their smartphone approximately 150 times per day.
If you or a loved one is struggling with technology addiction, Birches Health can help. Birches offers virtual treatment with therapists that specialize in technology addiction. It’s often covered by insurance and available from the comfort of home. To get started with Birches, you can click here, call (833) 483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com.
