Excessive Screen Time Linked to Lower Cognitive Function, Study Finds
By Movieguide® Contributor
A new study finds that increased screen time is linked to lower cognitive function.
“Our recent study sought to understand the potential cognitive consequences of ‘disordered screen-related behaviors,’” Science Alert wrote. “This is a broad category of problematic behaviors that may include screen dependency, and persisting with screen use even when it’s harmful.”
The study found excessive screen use can lead to a breakdown in attention spans and executive functioning, particularly when it comes to impulse control.
Science Alert explained that this was “the result of being constantly bombarded by algorithms and features designed to capture our attention. By diverting our focus outward, screen use may weaken one’s intrinsic ability to concentrate over time.”
“Crucially, impaired attention also makes it harder to disengage from addictive behaviors, and would therefore make it harder to recognise when screen use has become a problem,” the outlet continued.
“With increased reliance on technology, it has never been more important to assess the impact of too much use of screens on cognitive functioning and overall well being,” a portion of the study read. “This will enable the development of targeted remediation and treatment plans as well as inform designer decisions regarding development of technological platforms and devices with cognitive impacts in mind.”
The paper’s lead author, Macquarie University of Sydney neuropsychology researcher Mic Moshel, said this was “the first time anyone has reviewed all the available evidence together.”
“To get a better idea of how severe and long-lasting these effects on brain function are, we need to see studies featuring comprehensive cognitive assessments rather than single tests, and incorporating all types of screen use, particularly more on social media and smartphones,” he continued.
Movieguide® previously reported on the negative side effects that come from excessive screen time, particularly in children:
A new study from Canadian researchers found that extended screen time among school-aged children places them at a higher risk for developing anxiety and depression.
The study was conducted over 2021 and 2020 as screen times jumped drastically across the world. In Canada, the average screen usage among children rose from 2.6 hours pre-COVID to 5.9 hours during the initial weeks of the lockdown. The United States saw a similar trend. By the time the study was conducted, the average screen time of children hovered around 4 hours across the year-long research period; roughly double the 2-hour max recommended by most healthcare professionals.
Previous studies had found that high levels of screen time were correlated with impaired social skills, behavioral issues, and fatigue among children. This study continued the research into the effect that high exposure to screens has on children. It was especially interested in the correlation between screen time and depression and anxiety as these have skyrocketed in school-aged children since the pandemic, with an estimated 20-25% of children affected.
Using data from 193 surveys from parents about their child’s behavior, the researchers found a strong correlation between screen time and levels of depression and anxiety. The risk for depression and anxiety caused by high screen time was further enhanced based on levels of physical activity and age – younger children were more affected.
