From MadeForMums · · 50s
Screen Time Study Finds Complex Links to Child Development
New research shows screen time affects children's language and academic skills but isn't the sole cause.
In brief
New research shows screen time affects children's language and academic skills but isn't the sole cause. A study of 2.8 million children links higher screen use with poorer language skills and academic performance but emphasizes it's not the only factor. Originally reported by MadeForMums.
New study reveals
A major review of 2.8 million children links higher screen use with language and academic challenges.
“Higher screen use has been linked with poorer language development, lower overall academic achievement and a range of emotional and behavioural difficulties in children”
What the study found
Longer screen time associated with lower school grades and poorer language development.
“Higher screen exposure was linked with lower overall school grades and poorer language development”
Emotional impacts
Higher screen use linked to anxiety, depression symptoms and aggression.
“The study found links between higher screen use and emotional and peer problems”
Why it matters
Screen time effects comparable to socioeconomic status and preterm birth risks.
“The effect sizes were similar in magnitude to or larger than those reported for factors including socioeconomic status”
Experts caution
Screen use alone doesn't cause emotional distress or academic problems.
“Screen use alone does not explain why a teenager is emotionally distressed or performs less well academically”
What parents should know
Not all screen activities affect children equally.
“The research adds to evidence that the amount of time children spend using screens can be associated with several areas of development”
At a glance
A study of 2.8 million children links higher screen use with poorer language skills and academic performance but emphasizes it's not the only factor.
