What is Screen Time?

Screen time refers to the total duration an individual spends engaging with electronic devices such as phones, laptops, and similar gadgets. With rapid technological advancements, these devices have become an inseparable part of our lives.

We are constantly surrounded by screens, which has led to a growing dependence on them—sometimes at the cost of underutilizing the human mind, which is capable of extraordinary things. Although technology has revolutionized many aspects of life, it has also introduced a range of psychological and physical health concerns, largely due to our increasing reliance on it. This article explores the addiction associated with screen time and its impact on both adults and children.

Understanding Addiction

According to the Cleveland Clinic, addiction is a chronic condition involving compulsive engagement in a substance or activity despite its harmful consequences. Simply put, if someone persistently smokes cigarettes even after knowing the health risks, and experiences distress or aggression when unable to do so, they may be facing addiction. This same compulsive behaviour can manifest in relation to screen use.

Is Screen Time Bad?

Now that we understand what screen time is, the next question is whether it is inherently harmful. The answer depends largely on the amount and nature of usage. Like many things in life, moderation is key. When used constructively, screens offer immense learning opportunities. However, excessive use may result in dependency, eventually escalating to addiction.

Advantages of Screen Time

When used mindfully, screen time can offer several benefits:

• Access to educational resources and e-learning platforms
• Enhancement of visual-spatial skills through gaming
• Social connectivity via virtual communication
• Mental stimulation through interactive and engaging content

Disadvantages of Screen Time

However, excessive screen usage can have several adverse effects on mental health. Over-reliance on digital devices may lead to psychological dysfunction. Addiction to screens has been associated with:

• Reduced attention span
• Difficulty focusing
• Decreased social interaction
• Physical inactivity

These effects extend beyond psychological harm, impacting physical and social well-being as well.

Screen Time and Its Impact on Children

The Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development (QLSCD) revealed a long-term association between early screen exposure and reduced cognitive performance. Specifically, each additional hour of screen time at age two was linked to a 7% decrease in classroom participation and a 6% decline in math proficiency by the fourth grade.

Developmentally, children move through various stages critical to forming a healthy personality and skill set. Interruptions during these stages can have lasting effects. In psychology, the concepts of sensitive and critical periods refer to time windows where certain experiences are essential for development. For instance, the early years are crucial for language acquisition. If a child spends too much time watching screens instead of engaging in real-life conversations, it could lead to delayed speech and poor communication skills.

Similarly, early childhood is considered a sensitive period for developing emotional regulation and social skills. When children spend excessive time with screens instead of interacting with peers, they may struggle with empathy, communication, and forming meaningful relationships later in life.

A study conducted by Oxford University also suggests that children who engage in one to two hours of screen activity per day may exhibit better psychosocial functioning than non- users. However, usage beyond five hours daily is strongly associated with cognitive and behavioural issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while moderate screen time can offer valuable educational and social benefits, excessive and unregulated use—especially during developmental years—can hinder mental, emotional, and cognitive growth. The key lies in maintaining balance: using technology to complement human capabilities rather than replace them. As we continue to integrate digital tools into our daily lives, it is crucial to monitor not only the duration of screen use but also the quality of engagement. Promoting mindful usage, setting boundaries, and encouraging real-world interaction are essential steps toward fostering healthier and more balanced lives.

(The above article is authored by Ms. Ragini Todkar, an undergraduate Psychology student at Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce in Pune, Maharashtra)