Heavy Media Use in Teens Predicts New Attention Problems

Frequent checking, posting, browsing, streaming, and other online activity is associated with higher likelihood of meeting ADHD criteria 2 years later.

Research demonstrates small but significant relationships between heavy television and video game use and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. However, more research on mobile and interactive media is needed now that an estimated 95% of teens have access to a smartphone.

To address this need, researchers surveyed over 2500 students aged 15 to16 years from 10 urban high schools over the course of 2 years. Teens had no ADHD diagnosis at baseline, but high-frequency media use (e.g., checking social media, video chatting, liking or commenting on others' posts, online browsing, or watching videos “many times per day”) predicted new ADHD symptoms over time. For example, in teens reporting high frequency of all 14 media activit…

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Heavy Media Use in Teens Predicts New Attention Problems

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Reviewing Author