It’s even affecting young teenagers.
A recent study involving nearly 10,000 children aged 9 and 10 over a two-year period has uncovered a potential connection between screen time—such as watching TV and using other digital devices—and an increased likelihood of developing ADHD and depression. Dr. Jason Nagata from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), who led the research, suggested that excessive screen use may displace activities that are beneficial for mental health, including physical exercise, adequate sleep, and face-to-face social interactions. The findings were published on October 7 in BMC Public Health.
The research highlights a concerning trend in adolescent mental health, noting that today’s youth are significantly more likely to experience major depressive episodes and suicidal thoughts compared to two decades ago. In the U.S., the average tween reportedly spends about 5.5 hours each day on screens, with that number rising to 8.5 hours for teenagers.
To explore the potential link between screen time and mental health issues, Nagata and his team analyzed data collected between 2016 and 2018 from 9,538 children participating in a significant brain development study. They monitored the participants’ daily screen usage alongside diagnoses of various mental health conditions, including depression, ADHD, and conduct disorders. While the study did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it did reveal small but notable associations.
The results indicated that children with the highest daily screen time had a 10% increased likelihood of experiencing depression, a 7% higher risk of conduct issues, and a 6% greater risk of ADHD compared to those with lower screen time. Specific screen activities linked to higher depressive symptoms included video chatting, texting, watching videos, and playing video games. Interestingly, the impact appeared to be more pronounced among white adolescents compared to their Black peers.
Nagata pointed out that for minority adolescents, screens and social media might serve a different purpose, offering vital connections with peers who share similar backgrounds. Instead of displacing real-life relationships, technology could enhance their support networks beyond their immediate surroundings. To encourage healthier habits, Nagata recommended that parents consider developing a Family Media Use Plan tailored to the specific needs of each child, as advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
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