New Study Links Screen Time to Preschooler Behavior Problems and ADHD Symptoms

But the converse is also possible: Behavior dysregulation and short attention span may contribute to media use habits.

In the age of television and DVDs, several large-scale studies found associations between screen time and child attention and behavior problems (NEJM JW Pediatr Adolesc Med Jan 2008 and Pediatrics 2007; 120:532; NEJM JW Pediatr Adolesc Med Dec 2009 and Acad Pediatr 2009; 9:300). However, current research is limited by two main factors: Few large-scale studies have been conducted since mobile devices were introduced, and most studies don't take into account how preexisting child behavior problems might influence media use.

To address the first factor, researchers analyzed data from a large recent (2009–2012) birth cohort in Canada, focusing on 2427 children whose parents reported daily screen time and behavioral outcomes at age 5 years. Famil…

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

New Study Links Screen Time to Preschooler Behavior Problems and ADHD Symptoms

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Reviewing Author