A major new study on the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has highlighted a growing concern among young people: it’s not just how much time they spend on screens, but how they use them that could be affecting their mental health.
The research followed over 4,000 children in the United States from age 10 to 15 and found that addictive patterns of using social media, mobile phones, and video games were linked to significantly higher risks of negative thoughts, attempts, anxiety, and behaviour problems.
What Is “Addictive” Screen Use?
Addictive use includes things like:
- Feeling distressed without a phone or device
- Compulsively checking apps
- Using screens to escape real-life problems
- Struggling to stop even when they want to
These behaviours can start gradually and increase over time. Worryingly, nearly 1 in 3 children showed increasing addictive use of social media by age 11, and nearly half were already high users of mobile phones.
Why This Matters
The study found that young people with high or increasing addictive use of screens were:
- 2 to 3 times more likely to have negative thoughts or behaviours
- More likely to experience anxiety, depression, or act out at home and school
Importantly, the amount of time spent on screens was not the issue—it was how emotionally dependent they became on them.
What Can Parents Do?
Here are some simple steps to support healthier screen habits:
- Start conversations early – Ask how your child feels when they’re not online.
- Watch for emotional signs – Irritability, withdrawal, or sneaky behaviour may signal deeper issues.
- Encourage offline time – Sports, reading, outdoor activities, and in-person friendships matter.
- Set screen-free times – Especially before bed and during meals.
- Lead by example – Children model adult behaviour—consider your own phone habits too!
This study is a strong reminder that open communication, balanced routines, and emotional awareness can make all the difference in helping children develop a healthy relationship with technology.
For further details, you can read the full study on JAMA published in June 2025.
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