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Screen Time Adolescent Health

This research paper examines the negative effects of excessive screen time on adolescent health, including physical issues like obesity and sleep disturbances, as well as mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. It highlights the importance of parental involvement in moderating screen use and suggests strategies for promoting healthier digital habits. Ultimately, the paper calls for awareness and proactive management to help adolescents thrive in a technology-driven environment.

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54 views3 pages

Screen Time Adolescent Health

This research paper examines the negative effects of excessive screen time on adolescent health, including physical issues like obesity and sleep disturbances, as well as mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. It highlights the importance of parental involvement in moderating screen use and suggests strategies for promoting healthier digital habits. Ultimately, the paper calls for awareness and proactive management to help adolescents thrive in a technology-driven environment.

Uploaded by

kitkatbruh67
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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The Effects of Screen Time on Adolescent Health

Abstract

As digital devices become increasingly integrated into daily life, adolescents are spending more time

in front of screens than ever before. This research paper explores the effects of excessive screen

time on adolescent health, including physical, psychological, and social consequences. It also

provides insights into strategies for mitigating these effects.

Introduction

In the digital age, screen time among adolescents has risen dramatically due to smartphones,

computers, and television. While technology provides educational and social benefits, excessive use

is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes. Understanding these impacts is crucial for

parents, educators, and policymakers aiming to support healthy adolescent development.

Physical Health Impacts

Prolonged screen time is linked to sedentary behavior, which contributes to obesity, poor posture,

and vision problems such as digital eye strain. Adolescents who spend multiple hours per day on

screens are also at increased risk for sleep disturbances, particularly when screen use occurs

before bedtime.

Mental and Emotional Effects

Numerous studies have found associations between high screen time and increased rates of

depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem in adolescents. Social media, in particular, can contribute

to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness due to unrealistic portrayals of life and constant social

comparison. Furthermore, constant notifications and digital multitasking may reduce attention span

and cognitive performance.


Academic and Social Outcomes

While digital devices can enhance learning, excessive screen use can negatively impact academic

performance due to reduced sleep and decreased time spent on homework or reading. Socially,

screen time can displace face-to-face interactions, leading to weaker interpersonal skills and

reduced empathy.

Parental Role and Recommendations

Parents play a critical role in moderating screen time. Setting clear boundaries, encouraging

physical activity, and promoting screen-free family time can help establish healthy digital habits. It is

also important to model appropriate behavior and ensure that screen time is balanced with offline

activities.

Conclusion

While technology offers many benefits, excessive screen time poses significant risks to adolescent

health. Awareness, education, and proactive management strategies are essential to mitigate these

risks. By promoting a balanced approach to screen use, stakeholders can help adolescents thrive in

a digital world.

References

1. Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower

psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study.

Preventive Medicine Reports.

2. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2016). Media and Young Minds. Pediatrics.

3. Przybylski, A. K., & Weinstein, N. (2017). A large-scale test of the Goldilocks hypothesis:

Quantifying the relations between digital-screen use and the mental well-being of adolescents.
Psychological Science.

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