IMPACT OF SCREEN USE ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood is a vital period for cognitive, social, and emotional development, and excessive screen time can harm these fundamental aspects. Prolonged use of digital devices during childhood and adolescence is associated with various health problems, such as obesity, sleep disorders, learning difficulties, and mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Objective: To analyze the impact of screen use on the mental health of children and adolescents. Literature Review: Cognitive and social development can be influenced by delays in speech and language development in children exposed to screens for extended periods in early childhood. This is because the mental and brain development of any child is permeated by different brain structures and regions that mature with stimuli, touch, visuals, sounds, smell, and shape the function of neurobiological cycles for neurotransmitter production. However, prolonged exposure to screens can influence speech delays and, consequently, delays in the child's cognition and socialization. Final considerations: It is concluded that screen time exceeding recommended guidelines causes considerable harm to children and adolescents, such as increased inactive time—detrimental to activities like play, essential for child development—contributing to obesity and, later in adolescence, triggering poor sleep quality, depression, and anxiety.