Impact of Digital Device Usage on Juvenile Development

Impact of Screen Time on Children's Development

In today's digital age, the debate surrounding screen time and its impact on children has become a common point of contention among parents. From television to video games, devices have undeniably become an integral part of our lives, and this is no different for our children.

One concern that arises is the potential for children to feel neglected or secondary to a parent's phone or device usage. It's important to remember that children may express feelings of being overlooked, as they may perceive that their parents spend more time with their devices than with them.

Exposure to violence on television and inappropriate content can have negative impacts on children, even if parents are not aware of it. Commercials, including those for horror movies or sexual products, can inadvertently expose children to traumatizing or inappropriate subject matter. Children can also be exposed to inappropriate material through passive screen time, such as watching television in the background.

However, screen time is not all detrimental. It can offer benefits such as increased motivation for activities, improved learning in schools due to technology integration, exposure to more stimuli and learning material, enhancement of communication and family bonding, and teaching necessary skills for life. Screen time can also be made interactive and used as special time together to discuss after.

The key lies in finding the balance. Each family and child will vary in their optimal screen time and non-screen time ratio. Pausing the television when children want attention can help improve engagement and reduce interruptions. Limiting screen time is often recommended due to potential negative effects such as stunting development and creating aggression.

Research by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Center for Child and Youth Research at the Evangelical University Freiburg has highlighted risks such as depression, unhealthy body image, and loneliness among children and adolescents due to high screen exposure. Early exposure to screens and technology is not always a bad thing, but it's crucial to monitor and manage screen time effectively.

An often overlooked factor is second-hand screen time, meaning exposure to screens through parents or siblings. Parents' own personal screen time behaviour can also have an impact on their children, making them feel neglected or secondary to a parent's device.

The loss of social skills, such as seeing children using their imaginations less often or playing outside less frequently, is a significant concern. Screen time can reduce person-to-person interactions and limit social skills. However, screen time can also enhance communication and family bonding when used appropriately.

In conclusion, navigating screen time requires a thoughtful and balanced approach. It's essential to consider the potential benefits and risks, and to find a balance that works for each individual family and child. By being mindful of screen time, parents can help ensure their children's healthy development and foster a positive digital environment.