New study links excessive screen use to developmental delays and behavioural issues
An average child under the age of five in India spends around 2.2 hours daily in front of screens, nearly double the recommended limit, according to a new study published in the journal Cureus by Dr. Ashish Khobragade and Dr. M. Swathi Shenoy from AIIMS Raipur.
The study found that even children under two years of age—for whom most guidelines recommend zero screen time—have a mean screen exposure of 1.2 hours per day. The findings are based on a meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 2,857 children.
Researchers have raised alarm about the consequences of excessive screen time in early childhood. It has been linked to slowed language development, reduced cognitive function, hampered social skills, obesity, disturbed sleep, and attention issues.
63% of Kids Struggle with Core Skills
The education ministry’s PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan, (formerly NAS) reveals 43% Class VI students can’t grasp main ideas in texts, and 63% of those in Class IX fail to spot simple patterns in numbers or understand basic numerical sets like fractions and integers. The study assessed over 21 lakh students across 74,229 government and private schools.
Experts Call for Tech-Free Zones
To counteract the harmful effects of screen overuse, the Cureus study emphasizes the need to create tech-free zones at home, set clear and consistent screen time limits, and actively participate in offline play and interactions.
Dr. D.K. Gupta, child specialist and chairman of Felix Hospitals, warned, “Nearly 60-70% of children under five are spending more time on mobile phones, laptops or TVs than is healthy. This is leading to serious physical and behavioural problems.”
He urged parents to restrict screen exposure especially when children are being fed or are crying, noting that children often associate gadgets with comfort. “Parents need to be role models—they should become role models for their children,” he added.
Parents Must Encourage Outdoor Activities
Recently, the Chief Medical Officer of Ghaziabad issued an advisory for parents, highlighting rising cases of restlessness, aggression, and mental health issues among children addicted to mobile phones. The advisory urged families to encourage outdoor play and social activities.
Responsible digital citizenship can be promoted by good screen habits and guidance on appropriate content. “Parents complain of restlessness and aggressive behaviour among kids when internet use is monitored,” said a doctor. It is underlining the importance of balanced digital guidance at home.
