As technology continues to evolve and become an integral part of today’s developing world, a concern about the effects of screen time on young minds begins to emerge among adults. With an increasing amount of time spent on screens, the long-term impact on young people’s physical, mental, and social well-being is not only a concern but is becoming more evident.
Rising Mental Health Concerns
The mental health of children is suffering as a result of increased screen time and reliance on technology, not only for education but also for dopamine. Social media, in particular, has been cited as a major contributor to feelings of anxiety and depression among young people. A survey by the non-profit organization, Common Sense Media, revealed that 57% of teens say social media makes them feel worse about their self-image.
Psychologists warn that cyberbullying, online harassment, and the pressures of presenting a perfect online image exasperate feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Dr. Richard Kim, a clinical psychologist, states, “While the internet can offer a sense of connection, the downside is that it often exacerbates emotional and psychological distress in young people. They don’t yet have the tools to process the constant influx of images and information healthily.”
Physical Health Concerns
Extended screen use often leads to poor posture, eye strain, and a phenomenon known as, “digital eye strain,” where children experience blurred vision, headaches, and difficulty focusing. More concerning is the role that screen time plays in sedentary behavior: children who spend hours on screens are less likely to engage in physical activities, increasing the risk of obesity, and related health problems like diabetes and heart disease. According to experts, children aged 6 to 18 should get at least one hour of physical activity daily, but screen time frequently replaces essential exercise.
Furthermore, screens interfere with sleep patterns. The blue light emitted from digital devices disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This can lead to sleep deprivation, affecting a child’s mood, ability to concentrate, and overall cognitive function. Research has shown that children who engage in excessive screen time, especially before bed, have difficulty falling asleep and experience lower-quality sleep, directly impacting their health and performance in other areas.
Academic Performance and Cognitive Development
Excessive screen time can have significant academic consequences. With more time spent on devices, children often find it harder to focus on schoolwork or engage in activities that enhance their cognitive abilities, like reading or problem-solving. The constant distraction of notifications from social media, games, and other apps can make it difficult for children to concentrate on tasks for extended periods. Additionally, screen time often replaces more enriching activities that promote intellectual growth. For example, reading is a crucial skill for academic success. Still, children who spend large portions of their time on screens may read less, impacting their vocabulary development, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. There is also evidence that multitasking with digital devices can impair a child’s ability to retain and process information.
One of the most noticeable impacts of excessive screen time is a decline in attention span and the ability to focus for extended periods. Children who spend a significant amount of time in front of screens often become accustomed to the constant stream of stimuli, such as notifications, alerts, and changing images. This can make it difficult for them to concentrate on more prolonged, less stimulating tasks, such as reading or studying for exams. The brain, in essence, becomes desensitized to slower-paced and sustained focus, making it harder to engage in activities that require patience and mental endurance.
Long-Term Societal Impact
The consequences of excessive screen time have broader societal implications beyond individual health and academic performance. Children who face physical and mental health challenges, due to high screen use, may struggle to participate in society as adults fully. Chronic health problems like obesity, heart disease, and mental health disorders could strain healthcare systems and reduce workforce productivity in the future.
Moreover, the potential decline in social and cognitive skills could affect how these individuals contribute to the workforce and engage with their communities. The ability to collaborate, think critically, and solve problems is essential in a rapidly evolving job market. If children are not developing these skills due to excessive screen time, they may face difficulties in the professional world.
“The child perceives things like a solipsist who is unaware of himself as subject and is familiar only with his actions.”
-Jean Piaget