Study of 292,000 Children Reveals Screen Use Both Reflects and Contributes to Emotional Problems
A new study has found compelling evidence that screen use and socioemotional problems in children are linked in both directions. Published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, the meta-analysis reviewed 117 longitudinal studies involving nearly 293,000 children.
The findings show that children who spend more time on screens are slightly more likely to develop emotional or behavioral difficulties later on. At the same time, children who already struggle with issues like anxiety, aggression, or low self-esteem are also slightly more likely to increase their screen use over time.
This two-way relationship was especially noticeable with video game use, which showed the strongest association with future socioemotional problems.
The research suggests that children may turn to games as a coping mechanism, but excessive gaming can also reinforce or worsen emotional struggles. Effects were modest but consistent and became stronger the longer the period between screen exposure and observed problems.
Importantly, the study found that screen use within recommended limits did not show the same negative associations. However, excessive screen time, particularly when it displaces sleep, physical activity, or face-to-face interaction, was more strongly linked to emotional difficulties.
The study also highlighted differences across age, gender, and racial groups, with older children, boys, and children from underrepresented backgrounds showing stronger effects in certain areas.
While the findings do not prove direct causation, they represent the most comprehensive evidence to date on how screen use and emotional health interact over time.
The authors emphasize that screens are not inherently harmful, but overuse can be a warning sign of deeper emotional needs. They urge parents not only to set limits but also to ask why a child might be turning to screens in the first place.
