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Association of Screen Time With Internalizing and Externalizing Behavior Problems in Children 12 Years or Younger: A
Rachel Eirich1,2, Brae Anne McArthur1,2, Ciana Anhorn1
1Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
JAMA Psychiatry
|March 16, 2022
Summary
This study found that increased screen time is linked to more behavior problems in children. Methodological differences in studies may explain varied results on screen time and child behavior.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
Background:
- There is ongoing debate regarding the connection between screen time and behavioral issues in children.
- Existing literature lacks a clear consensus on this association.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze the relationship between screen time duration and behavior problems in children.
- To assess associations with both externalizing and internalizing behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted.
- Searched MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO databases (1960-2021).
- Included 87 studies with 159,425 participants, excluding those from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Main Results:
- A small but statistically significant positive correlation was found between screen time duration and externalizing behaviors (r=0.11).
- A small but statistically significant positive correlation was also observed for internalizing behaviors (r=0.07).
- Significant heterogeneity was noted across studies, with methodological factors explaining variations.
Conclusions:
- Increased screen time is associated with a small but significant increase in both externalizing and internalizing behavior problems in children.
- Discrepancies in findings are likely due to methodological differences in study designs and measurements.
- Further research may clarify the nuances of screen time's impact on child development.
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