In today’s changing lifestyle, everyone including children spends most of their time on smartphones and social media. Especially children are spending a lot of time on mobile phones, tablets and computers. Due to this, addiction to social media, videos and online gaming is increasing. This has come to light in the latest survey (2024) of LocalCircles.
What was revealed in the survey?
The survey revealed that 66 percent of parents living in cities believe that their children aged 9 to 17 years have become addicted to social media, OTT platforms and gaming. Due to this, problems like restlessness, anger and lethargy are increasing in children. More than 70,000 parents from 368 districts were included in this survey. It found that 47% of children spend 3 hours or more of screen time daily, while 10% of children spend more than 6 hours on screens. This addiction is believed to have started with online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues even today. Children spend more time watching videos, playing games and on social media. Due to this their ability to concentrate is decreasing.
What were the results of the survey?
58% of parents said that their children have become more aggressive.
49% reported that their children were becoming restless.
Excessive lethargy was seen in 49% children.
42% showed symptoms of depression.
30% children became hyperactive.
What do doctors say?
According to doctors, excessive screen time has a negative impact on the brain. This increases symptoms like lack of attention, restlessness and ADHD. According to Dr. Sameer Malhotra, Head of Psychiatry at Max Hospital, New Delhi, screens release more dopamine hormone, which is addictive. Due to this, children become restless in real life. They have difficulty concentrating and get angry easily. Moreover, screen addiction is increasing emotional problems in children aged 9-17 years. Anxiety affects studies and relationships. Additionally, excessive screen time disrupts sleep, further increasing anxiety.
Ways to prevent it:
Limit screen time to 1-2 hours daily.
Increase time spent playing outside, reading and spending time with family.
Parents should also reduce their screen use.
Ensure adequate sleep and healthy diet. If the problem persists, consult a doctor or psychologist.