Recent studies suggest a concerning correlation between children’s tech addiction and an elevated risk of psychosis. The pervasive use of smartphones and other digital devices among children has raised alarms among parents and healthcare professionals alike. Excessive screen time and engagement with online content have been linked to various negative consequences on children’s mental health.
Children addicted to smartphones, iPads and video games are more likely to suffer psychotic episodes later in life, a study has indicated.
Smartphone and social media use in adolescence is linked to paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, and ‘bizarre ideas’ by age 23.
But researchers said that the tech itself may not actually be the cause of the problem and that a child’s addiction to the devices could be a warning that they are already vulnerable to mental illness.
Writing in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, the Canadian team behind the study said: ‘Higher media use and mental health problems appear to share risk factors, such as parental mental health problems, loneliness, bullying and parent-child relational problems.’
The study looked at the media habits and psychotic experiences of 2,120 Canadians born in 1997 and 1998. It found that those who drastically reduced their computer use still had more frequent psychotic experiences in adulthood, even after other personal experiences were considered.
In conclusion, the study underscores the urgency of addressing children’s tech addiction as a public health concern. Recognizing the connection, stakeholders can implement measures to encourage healthier tech habits among children. Consequently, this proactive approach can mitigate the risks associated with excessive screen time. Efforts such as implementing screen time guidelines are essential to combat tech addiction. Providing resources for parents and educators is equally crucial.
read more
image source
