Screen time for kids has been a hot topic of discussion recently, especially in light of a recent study conducted in Denmark. The study, led by Dr. Jesper Schmidt-Persson from the University of Southern Denmark, examined the effects of limiting screen time on children’s mental health.
The study involved 89 families with a total of 181 children and teens. These families were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The first group had to give up their smartphones and tablets for a two-week period and limit their use of other screen media, such as TV and computers, to three hours or less per week, excluding work or school. The control group did not have any limitations.
At the end of the study period, the families filled out a Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to assess the children’s psychological symptoms. The results showed that the group that limited screen exposure saw improvements in mental health, particularly in how they managed their emotions, communicated with peers, and displayed behavioral difficulties.
The findings of the study were published in JAMA Network Open and have sparked discussions about the risks of excess screen time for kids. According to Dr. Joshua Stein, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, excessive screen time and social media use at a young age can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. A study from 2023 found that teens who spent more than five hours a day on screens were more likely to express suicidal thoughts or engage in self-harm.
Experts recommend limiting screen time for kids based on age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends capping screen time at two hours per day for children ages 2 and older. For children younger than 2, it discourages the use of any media. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry provides specific guidelines for different age groups, emphasizing the importance of limiting screen time for overall health and well-being.
Dr. Zeyad Baker, a pediatric physician, suggests that parents should focus on the quality of screen time rather than just the quantity. He recommends limiting screen time to academic-related content during the week and allowing access to social media or entertainment on weekends. Additionally, he advises parents to encourage other activities, such as outdoor play, to promote physical and mental health in children.
In conclusion, the study from Denmark highlights the positive impact of limiting screen time on children’s mental health. By setting boundaries and encouraging healthy screen habits, parents can help promote overall well-being in their children.
