A new study has found that cutting back on leisure screen time can significantly improve the mental health of children and adolescents.
Conducted by researchers from the University of Southern Denmark and published in JAMA Network Open, the study provides experimental evidence that supports the link between excessive screen media use and poorer mental health among young people.
Key Findings
The study involved 89 families from Southern Denmark, encompassing 181 children and adolescents. Participants were divided into two groups: one that adhered to a strict screen media reduction plan and a control group that maintained their usual screen habits. For two weeks, families in the intervention group limited their leisure screen time to three hours per week, handing over smartphones and tablets.
The results were compelling. The group that reduced their screen time showed a significant decrease in behavioral difficulties. The most notable improvements were seen in internalizing symptoms, such as emotional problems and peer relationship issues, as well as in prosocial behavior, indicating better social interactions.
Quantifiable Improvements
According to the study, children in the screen reduction group had an average total difficulties score that was 1.67 points lower than those in the control group. The improvements in internalizing symptoms were particularly significant, with a mean difference of 1.03 points. Prosocial behavior scores also saw a notable increase of 0.84 points.
Expert Insights
“Our study confirms that reducing leisure-time screen media use improves several aspects of mental health among children and adolescents in the short term,” the authors said. “This suggests that even short breaks from screen media can have a positive impact on young people’s mental well-being.”
Broader Implications
The study’s findings add to the growing body of research suggesting that high levels of screen media use are linked to mental health issues in young people. However, this study is unique in its experimental approach, providing stronger evidence of a causal relationship.
While the short duration of the intervention limits the ability to draw long-term conclusions, the researchers are optimistic about the potential benefits of sustained screen time reduction. They recommend further studies to explore the long-term effects and to identify the most effective strategies for reducing screen media use.
Recommendations for Families
For parents concerned about their children’s screen time, the study offers a hopeful message: small, manageable reductions in screen use can lead to meaningful improvements in mental health. Engaging in alternative activities, such as outdoor play, reading, and family interactions, can help fill the gap left by screen time reduction and further enhance mental well-being.
Conclusion
As digital devices become increasingly embedded in daily life, finding a healthy balance in screen use is more critical than ever. This study provides valuable insights and practical guidance for families looking to improve their children’s mental health by moderating screen time.
Visual Presentation
Reference:
Schmidt-Persson J, Rasmussen MGB, Sørensen SO, et al. Screen Media Use and Mental Health of Children and Adolescents: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(7):e2419881. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.19881
