Screen time and ADHD

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Screen time has become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, we spend more time than ever before in front of screens. While technology has undoubtedly brought many benefits, excessive screen time has been linked to a range of negative health outcomes, including ADHD.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. While the exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, recent research suggests that excessive screen time may be a contributing factor.

Studies have shown that children who spend more time in front of screens are more likely to develop ADHD. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt sleep patterns and affect the development of the brain's frontal lobe, which is responsible for regulating attention and impulse control. Excessive screen time can also lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can further exacerbate ADHD symptoms.

Reducing screen time is essential for managing ADHD symptoms. Parents and caregivers can encourage children to engage in physical activities and spend time outdoors. They can also limit screen time and ensure that children are getting enough sleep each night. Additionally, adults with ADHD can benefit from reducing their own screen time and finding alternative ways to manage their symptoms.

In conclusion, excessive screen time has been linked to ADHD, and reducing screen time is essential for managing ADHD symptoms. By encouraging physical activity and limiting screen time, we can help to promote healthy brain development and improve overall well-being.

These references provide scientific evidence and research to support the claims made in the article

Hutton, J. S., Dudley, J., Horowitz-Kraus, T., DeWitt, T., & Holland, S. K. (2019). Associations between screen-based media use and brain white matter integrity in preschool-aged children. JAMA pediatrics, 173(3), e193869.

Madigan, S., Browne, D., Racine, N., Mori, C., & Tough, S. (2019). Association between screen time and children’s performance on a developmental screening test. JAMA pediatrics, 173(3), 244-250.

Scassellati, B., Admoni, H., & Matarić, M. (2012). Robots for use in autism research. Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering, 14, 275-294.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2016). Media and children communication toolkit. https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/campaigns/media/Pages/default.aspx

Article written by Elias KIWAN, OTR. Abu Dhabi, UAE



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