In the age of technology we live in, screen time is a part of most people’s daily lives-even children. Trying to determine just how much screen time (television, video games, social media, etc.) is acceptable for leading a balanced life and for emotional well-being is a huge topic of conversation and research these days.
Recent research by San Diego State University psychologist Jean Twenge, and University of Georgia psychology professor W. Keith Campbell, validates the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation of not more than an hour per day of high-quality screen time for children ages 2-5, and consistent limits for school-aged children and adolescents, in their article, “Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study,” which appeared in the October 2018, Preventative Medicine Reports. Their findings indicate significant differences in the percentage of diagnoses of anxiety and depression in youth who have one hour of screen time daily, compared with those who are considered moderate users (4 hours) and high users (more than 7 hours).
Other findings of interest include differences in curiosity and interest in learning new things, the ability to complete tasks, as well as emotional stability.
Here at New Horizon’s Center for Healing in McKinney, we can help equip families with the skills necessary to set healthy limits and establish healthy patterns with screen time for increased psychological wellness. Call us today at 1-972-607-9650.
Journal Reference:
- Jean M. Twenge, W. Keith Campbell. Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Preventive Medicine Reports, 2018; 12: 271 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.10.003
Article reference:
San Diego State University. “Reduced screen time for young highly recommended for well-being.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 29 October 2018. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181029150931.htm>.
