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Children's Internet use and physical and psychosocial development
Svetlana Novaković1, Sanja Milenković2, Marijana Srećković3,4,5
1Public Health Institute Požarevac, Požarevac, Serbia.
Frontiers in Public Health
|June 26, 2023
Summary
Excessive internet use in children is linked to obesity and behavioral issues, but not vision or spine problems. This study highlights the impact of screen time on child development.
Area of Science:
- Child Development
- Pediatric Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Internet use (IU) is often associated with sedentary lifestyles and potential addiction in children.
- Understanding the impact of IU on physical and psychosocial development is crucial for child well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between children's internet use and their physical development (vision, spinal health, BMI).
- To examine the association between internet use and psychosocial development, including emotional symptoms and behavioral conduct.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 836 primary school children.
- Data collected via sedentary behavior questionnaire and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).
- Medical records analyzed for vision problems and spinal deformities; BMI calculated from measured height and weight.
Main Results:
- No significant correlation found between daily internet use and vision problems or spinal deformities.
- Daily internet use was significantly associated with obesity (p < 0.001) and increased sedentary behavior (p = 0.01).
- Significant correlations observed between internet usage/sedentary behavior and emotional symptoms, hyperactivity/inattention, and conduct problems.
Conclusions:
- Children's internet use is linked to obesity and psychosocial disturbances.
- Sedentary behavior stemming from internet use correlates with negative emotional and behavioral outcomes in children.
- While not impacting vision or spine, excessive screen time poses risks to children's overall health and adjustment.
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