Problematic Screen Use, Not Total Time, Impairs Youth Mental Health
Briefly

Increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts among youth have been connected to screen media usage. New findings indicate that addiction to screens, rather than the total amount of screen time, is a critical factor in mental health decline. A study involving over 4,000 children revealed that those who self-reported addictive screen use showed significantly higher risks for mental health issues. This compulsive behavior is common among youth, especially with smartphones, highlighting the need to address the nature of their technology engagement.
The decline in mental health among kids and teens is closely linked to time spent using screen media, particularly social media and video games.
Research indicates that youth who view their screen use as addictive experience higher levels of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, regardless of total screen time.
The alarming rise in youth mental-emotional health issues is tied to compulsive technology use rather than merely the amount of time spent on screens.
Compulsive screen-related behavior is prevalent among children and teens, particularly involving smartphones, with nearly half exhibiting signs of addiction.
Read at Psychology Today
[
|
]