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Long-Term Trends in Screen Time Use Among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review Including Pre- and Post-COVID
Yuko Mori1,2, Sanju Silwal1,2, Wan Mohd Azam Wan Mohd Yunus3
1Department of Child Psychiatry, Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry
|March 21, 2026
Summary
Screen time for children and adolescents has increased significantly over decades, with a notable surge post-COVID-19. While TV viewing decreased, computer and video game use grew, highlighting evolving digital engagement trends.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Media Studies
Background:
- Increased internet and smartphone access has altered children's screen time habits.
- No prior systematic review comprehensively analyzed long-term screen time trends in youth, pre- and post-COVID-19.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review long-term trends in screen time use among children and adolescents.
- To assess changes in screen time before and after the COVID-19 pandemic onset.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of repeated cross-sectional studies (0-19 years) from 1991-2022.
- Searched Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO; followed PRISMA guidelines.
- Narrative synthesis of 60 identified studies, assessing quality with the Diverse Designs Tool.
Main Results:
- Traditional TV watching declined; computer and video game usage increased over time.
- Overall screen time for youth showed a significant upward trend, accelerating post-COVID-19.
- Variability in screen time definitions and measurement methods across studies was noted.
Conclusions:
- Screen time among youth has demonstrably increased, with significant shifts in activity types.
- The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have further amplified screen time trends in young populations.
- Further research and evidence-based policies are crucial for promoting responsible technology use in youth.
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