news
New research shows a link between mobile devices and emotional dysregulation in children, with potential long-term consequences.
Excessive screen time can have long-term detrimental effects on children.
Research published in JAMA Pediatrics It has been shown that using mobile devices to calm children may reduce their chances of learning emotion regulation strategies.
US researchers who studied 422 children ages 3 to 5 found that children given cell phones to calm them down were unable to think clearly, according to assessments of executive function, and never used cell phones. They found that they were more likely to have emotional reactions than children who were restless or rarely restless.
Dr. Andrew Leach, a general practitioner with a special interest in children’s mental health, said: News GP The research should come as no surprise.
“We are increasingly turning to technology to calm our children,” he said.
“This starts at school and continues at home, using iPads, for example.
“Parents often say that it’s very difficult to set limits on screen time and that when they finally turn it off they’ll have meltdowns and tantrums.
Leach said the study highlights that parents often struggle to manage children with difficult behaviors, and many believe screens are the most effective short-term solution. We have discovered to offer
However, while they often provide immediate relief, this practice can be harmful in the long run and have increasing impact.
As part of the study, parents completed an online survey about their children. Use of mobile devices for calming purposes was assessed with the question ‘How likely are you to give your child a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet if he is upset and needs to calm down?’ it was done.
Parents responded on a five-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 4 (very much).
When the researchers followed the cohorts after 3 and 6 months, those who were calmed by their mobile phone were more likely to be more emotionally reactive, strongest in ‘high urgency’ boys and children. It turns out that there is an impact.
High Surgency refers to traits such as extroversion, strong temperament, anger, and impulsivity.
Lead author Jenny Ladeskey, Ph.D., a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, said the results suggest that the short-term sedative effects of screens may have the opposite long-term effect by increasing emotional reactivity. said that he is
This problem is especially acute in early childhood because device use can deprive children of the opportunity to develop independent and alternative methods of self-regulation.
“If caregivers can quickly and effectively reduce their child’s negative and challenging behaviors, they may soon be relieved of device use.
“This can be rewarding for both parent and child, and motivate both to keep this cycle going.
‘[But] When you see a 3- to 5-year-old child going through an emotionally difficult moment, they may be shouting or crying about something, being irritable, hitting or kicking, or lying on the floor. There is a nature. The study suggests that using media to keep them quiet doesn’t help in the long run.
Dr. Leach, an advisory member of Curtin University’s Healthy Digital Child Program, says we’re seeing an exponential increase in children’s screen use and the negative effects that come with it.
“Kids’ brains don’t feel ready or prepared to deal with the amount of screen usage we’re providing,” he said.
“They are overstimulated.
“This also helps them learn social skills, play less outdoors, and has knock-on effects on issues like obesity, learning disabilities and even ADHD.”
On the other hand, Dr. Radesky says that when screens increase a child’s emotional reactivity, they are more likely to react more when their day-to-day frustrations arise.
She recommends better alternatives to screens, such as naming children’s emotions, using physical input such as cuddling to calm children, and offering alternative actions such as hitting the pillow. I’m here.
“All of these solutions help children better understand themselves and improve their ability to manage their emotions,” said Dr. Ladesky.
“Caregivers need to stay calm and try not to overreact to their child’s emotions, but by doing this repeatedly, they can develop emotional control skills that will last a lifetime.
“By contrast, using distractors like mobile devices does not acquire skills. It only distracts children from what they are feeling. As children get older, they are more likely to struggle when they are stressed at school or with peers.
Current Australian guidelines recommend no more than 1 hour of screen time per day for sedentary recreation for children ages 3-5.
Dr. Leach suggests setting limits, setting boundaries, and being mindful of what children use screens for.
Teach your child how to use screens safely. Spend time with your device so your child can navigate the technology,” he said.
“Not all technology is the same.
“Beware of gaming addiction, especially among boys. I’m seeing a surge in the number of boys spending extra time playing games and an increasing negative mental health impact from doing this.
“Surveillance apps such as YouTube and TikTok are both potentially harmful to the content they provide to children.”
He also said we need clearer guidelines and a better understanding of the right level of screen use.
“Remember that boredom is a good thing,” said Dr. Leach. “Kids who say they are bored show creativity.”
To join the conversation, log in below.
kids emotions screen time
newsGP weekly poll
How do you handle a tenant doctor who is responsible for payroll taxes?
