The Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Children's Behavior and Emotions

Let’s be honest with each other and ourselves – screen time has become an almost inescapable part of our daily lives, and this means it is a huge part of our children’s lives. While technology brings us many benefits, the prevalence of screens has sparked concerns regarding their impact on the behavior and emotional wellbeing of our youngest generation.

Excessive screen time has been linked to a host of behavioral issues, including diminished attention spans and increased impulsivity. In fact, children immersed in digital worlds often struggle with patience and delayed gratification, skills that are crucial for successful interpersonal relationships and academic achievement.

The emotional landscape of children heavily exposed to screen time is equally troubling. I know it can be for me if I don’t check myself! The constant stream of perfectly curated images and experiences can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and dissatisfaction with one’s own life. Social media platforms – despite their promise of “connection” – so often worsen feelings of loneliness and isolation among young users and adults alike. In addition, exposure to violent or disturbing content can induce anxiety or fearfulness, further threatening a child's emotional wellbeing.

So what to we do about it? Understanding and admitting to the nuanced effects that excessive screen time can have on children's behavior and emotions is critical so we can make adjustments to raise resilient, well-adjusted children in this digital age. It is SO important to teach our children good habits that lead to putting down the screens and engaging in other activities. As a start, check out my posts:

Balancing Screen Time for Kids: 3 Effective Strategies

5 Conversation Starters for You and Your Family

Additional info on the impact of excessive screen time:

The Impact of Screen Time on Childhood Development: Balancing Risks and Benefits for Children with Special Needs by Help My Child

Navigating Dopamine, Children, and Screen Time: Unraveling Impacts and Strategies by Integrative Psych

Screen Time and Study Balance: Finding the Right Digital Balance for Kids by Sang Pediatrics

The Dangers of Excessive Screen Time by Mountain Vista Psychology

The Impact of Screen Time on College Students: Finding Balance in the Digital Age by Honor Society

The Detrimental Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Children and Young Adults by Freedom Childcare

Kids' Screen Time: These Are Some Downsides by Blocksi