How excessive phone use affects children's behaviour
Recent studies have suggested a correlation between the rise in screen time and the increase in behavioral issues among children.
Recently, I went on an outing with an old friend and her young daughter.
We have known each other for years, and I was keen to catch up, so I made the effort to meet her.
It seemed like he appreciated my company, but there was something I could not help but notice. Every few minutes, as we waited for food, she would check her phone.
It is something that happens all the time these days, so I did not think much of it at first. But then, I noticed a subtle feeling creeping in; each time she looked down at her phone, I felt a little hurt. I asked myself, does she even want to be here? Does she have to be somewhere? What is she doing on her phone? Can she tell me?
Am I the only one who feels this way?
Do others feel slightly disregarded when someone pulls out their phone and shifts their attention away from the conversation?
And what about children? How does it affect them when adults do the same?
We are in an age dominated by technology, and smartphones have become an integral part of everyday life. As children increasingly use smartphones for entertainment, communication, and learning, experts warn that excessive phone usage might be at the heart of behavioral problems in children, including acting out and emotional distress.
The unseen consequences of screen time
Recent studies have suggested a correlation between the rise in screen time and the increase in behavioral issues among children.
While it may seem like a small issue, the impact can be profound. Psychologists argue that long hours of screen time can contribute to difficulty managing emotions, increased irritability, and attention-seeking behavior in children.
"When children spend a significant portion of their day on their phones, they may struggle with emotional regulation. They are not learning to cope with boredom or frustration, which can lead to them acting out when they don’t get what they want, either from their device or their environment." Dr. Jessica Moore, a child psychologist, says.
One of the key issues, according to Dr. Moore, is the lack of real-world interaction.
“Phones provide an instant source of stimulation, but they don’t foster deep emotional connections. When children aren’t engaging in meaningful conversations or socializing face-to-face, their ability to express themselves constructively can be diminished."
Why acting out might not be 'bad behavior'
Many parents may attribute their child’s acting out to poor manners or a lack of discipline.
However, experts suggest that this behavior could be a signal that children are struggling to communicate their needs.
The constant exposure to fast-paced, high-stimulation content on phones can make it harder for children to focus, resulting in frustration when things do not go their way.
"Children may act out because they are overwhelmed by the overstimulation phones provide,” Dr. Moore adds.
“They might not know how to ask for help or express their emotions properly. Acting out is a way to get attention, but it’s often a cry for emotional support.”
The big question for parents is: How can they help their children navigate the world of smartphones while protecting their emotional health?
The first step is understanding the hidden impact of excessive screen time and taking action to set healthier boundaries.
Dr. Moore advises parents to set limits on screen time and ensure that children engage in other forms of learning and interaction.
“It’s about creating a balance. Encourage your children to participate in physical activities, outdoor play, and face-to-face interactions. These are all important for their emotional and social development.”
Dr. Moore adds that parents need to be more present for their children and stop engaging with their phones, as it can make them feel ignored and frustrated.
"When parents are constantly checking their devices, children may perceive it as a lack of interest or affection, which can lead to anger or anxiety," she explains.
"Being fully engaged in the moment with your child helps foster a deeper emotional connection and shows them they are valued."
Parents should also lead by example. If children see their parents glued to their phones, they are more likely to adopt similar habits.
Engaging in non-screen-based activities together, such as reading or playing board games, going for a walk, or doing other outdoor activities, can help build stronger emotional bonds.
Finally, Dr. Moore emphasized the importance of open communication.
"Check in with your child regularly about how they’re feeling. Discuss their screen time and how it affects them. This helps create an environment of trust where your child feels comfortable expressing concerns and seeking guidance before resorting to acting out."
"If your child isn’t verbalising their feelings yet, you can always pick up on their body language, which can offer valuable clues about their emotional state."
While smartphones will likely continue to be a prominent part of our children’s lives, it is crucial for parents to remain vigilant about the emotional impact they may have.
Understanding the connection between screen time and behavioral issues can help parents address concerns early.
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