Overexposure to screens can be a source of anxiety in children. Indeed, tablets and other devices have become omnipresent in our daily lives, with the negative effects that implies. In addition, excessive use can lead to various health problems, including behavioral disorders and anxiety. In this article, we will break down the dangers associated with excessive screen exposure and the measures parents can take to protect their children REF [^1^].
Excessive screen exposure and behavioral disorders in children
Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of screens. Prolonged exposure is likely to cause behavioral disorders, such as irritability, aggression, and attention problems REF [^2^].
Screens and children: physical and behavioral impacts
Screens can have negative effects on the overall development of children. Overexposure will therefore affect both their physical and mental well-being. Physical problems include eye strain, while behavioral impacts can include sleep disorders and anxiety REF [^3^].
Preventing the effects of screens: actions to take
It is the duty of adults to establish rules for screen use and to encourage off-screen activities. Parents also have the option of using parental control apps to monitor and limit screen time. Regular breaks should also be encouraged and good posture ensured to avoid eye fatigue and headaches.
What rules to adopt for ages 0 to 9?
Nevertheless, the best recommendation remains the following. Young parents are advised to prohibit any screen access for children under 3 years old REF [^4^]. From 3 to 6 years old, very limited, occasional exposure of a few minutes is acceptable, although no screen is preferable. For 6-9 year-olds, screen time should be restricted to one hour per day, for educational purposes and under adult supervision.
What recommendations for ages 9 to 18?
Children aged 9 to 12 can use educational screens without internet access, always under adult supervision. Between 12 and 16, controlled internet access is allowed in the presence of an adult. Finally, from 16 to 18, adolescents can be granted greater freedom of internet access, provided the use remains educational and informative, even if constant adult supervision is no longer necessary.
Too many screens, harmful effects on health?
Excessive exposure to screens is likely to have serious consequences on health and on academic results. It can also impact the personality and behavior of the youngest.
Screens and blue light, watch out!
The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the circadian rhythm and contribute to sleep disorders. It is recommended to use blue light filters and to limit screen use before bedtime.
Screens: problems falling asleep?
Children who spend too much time in front of screens are likely to experience difficulties falling asleep and maintaining quality sleep REF [^5^]. In addition, screen use before bedtime can delay sleep onset and reduce the duration of deep sleep.
Screens: what impact on cognitive development?
Excessive use of screens can hinder childrenrsquo;s cognitive development. In addition to disrupting their concentration, it will affect their learning abilities and memory.
Screens: what impact on mental health?
Screens can also impact childrenrsquo;s mental health, with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders among children and adolescents.
Sedentary behavior: the main physical impact of overexposure in children and adolescents
Children who spend too much time in front of screens are more likely to gain weight and develop health problems associated with obesity.
Sedentary behavior and obesity
There is a direct link between time spent in front of screens and the risk of obesity in children and adolescents.
Sedentary behavior and health problems
Sedentary behavior can also contribute to other health problems, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Musculoskeletal problems and poor blood circulation should not be ruled out either.
Do screens promote depression and school drop-out among adolescents?
There is evidence suggesting a link between excessive screen use and depression as well as school dropout among adolescents. This also manifests as an increase in depressive symptoms and a decline in academic performance.
Abnormal screen use noted by the High Council for Public Health
The High Council for Public Health has emphasized the need to limit screen time among children and adolescents. It also warned about the dangers of this overexposure, particularly among the young.
More than one in two teens has at least one sleep disorder
Sleep disorders are common among adolescents who excessively use screens, particularly before bedtime.
Video games as outlets
Although video games can serve as an outlet, excessive use is likely to have negative consequences. This can, for example, lead to behavioral problems.
Screen use and interpersonal relationships
Overexposure to screens is likely to affect the quality of interpersonal relationships, especially among adolescents. Indeed, time spent with family and friends is reduced.
Relational problems linked to misuse of social networks
Social networks can contribute to relational problems, such as jealousy and feelings of isolation or frustration.
Video games and aggressive behavior
There is a link between violent video games and aggressive behavior in some adolescents. Some video games are likely to encourage this type of behavior, especially if played excessively.
Talk about cyberbullying with your teen
It is important to discuss cyberbullying with adolescents and to implement prevention strategies. They need to be educated on how to protect themselves online.
Screen exposure and anxiety: what is the connection?
Excessive exposure to screens can contribute to anxiety in children, adolescents, and particularly in young people.
Educate and raise awareness about the dangers of screen addiction among adolescents and children
It is the responsibility of adults to educate and raise awareness among children and adolescents about the dangers of screen addiction. Healthy use of these devices should also be promoted.
Importance of the parent-child relationship in combating childrenrsquo;s screen addiction
The parent-child relationship is important in preventing screen addiction. Parents also play a key role in regulating their childrenrsquo;s screen use.
Does parental screen addiction automatically lead to childrenrsquo;s addiction?
Parents should be aware of their own screen use and its impact on their children. Indeed, if they are addicted to screens, their young ones are more likely to develop a similar dependence.
In conclusion,
It is essential to be aware of the dangers associated with excessive screen exposure and to implement prevention strategies to protect the mental and physical health of children. It is the responsibility of adults to ensure the well-being of the young.
Disclaimer
This article is based on general knowledge and does not replace professional medical advice.
References
Footnotes
REF [^1^] The dangers of screens for children ↩
REF [^2^] Impact of screens on child development ↩
REF [^3^] The true impact of screens on childrenrsquo;s development ↩
REF [^4^] No screens before three years old ↩
REF [^5^]Screens and your circle: young children and screens ↩