A growing body of research is raising alarms about screen use among young children, especially those under age 5.
A recent meta-analysis found that three in four children younger than 2 are being exposed to screens, despite global health guidelines advising otherwise. Experts say the effects aren’t just developmental—they may be emotional, behavioral and lasting.
Here’s a breakdown of the findings and what parents need to know.
Alarming rates of early screen use
Guidelines from both the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend zero screen time for children under 1, and no more than one hour per day for those aged 2 to 5. But recent studies show many families aren’t following that advice.
In low-income communities, the rates are even higher. A 2015 study published in Pediatrics found 92% of children from these communities started using mobile media before their first birthday. By age 2 to 4, nearly half of American kids have their own tablet or smartphone. That figure jumps to more than two-thirds by age 8.
A cycle of screen time and emotional problems
Experts say excessive screen time may do more than distract—it can harm. A new study from the American Psychological Association found that children under 10 who spend more time on screens are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and behavioral challenges.
And the relationship is cyclical. Researchers say those same emotional struggles may drive children to spend even more time on screens to cope, reinforcing the problem.
The study included all types of screen use—TVs, tablets and smartphones—but found no significant preference in content among kids. It wasn’t what they watched or played, but how long they engaged with it that mattered most.
Boys and girls affected differently
While screen use affects children across the board, researchers found gender differences in how those effects play out. Girls, especially those using social media, were more susceptible to emotional harm. But boys showed stronger links between general screen use and negative outcomes over time.
Experts say boys tend to struggle more with impulse control, frustration and emotional regulation—factors that may influence how they use screen time to cope.
One study found boys are up to six times more likely to engage in problematic gaming, which may crowd out protective behaviors like physical activity, friendships and school engagement.
Gaming’s unique role in emotional health
Among the different types of screen use, gaming appears to have the strongest “reciprocal relationship” with socioemotional problems. In other words, kids who game more often tend to experience more emotional difficulties, which in turn leads to more gaming.
Researchers caution that this doesn’t mean all gaming is harmful. Some video games can improve well-being, social connection, or even cognitive skills. But when gaming becomes a way to escape emotional distress or replaces healthy behaviors, it can become problematic.
What parents can do
Experts emphasize that screens aren’t inherently harmful, but they should be used thoughtfully. The Mayo Clinic recommends:
- Setting screen-time curfews
- Keeping devices out of bedrooms
- Creating screen-free zones, like at mealtimes or during homework
- Encouraging physical play, face-to-face interaction and consistent sleep
Staying involved in kids’ digital habits is also key. Researchers say active parental involvement in screen and gaming activities can strengthen relationships and help address emotional issues before they worsen.
The American Psychological Association notes that modest, balanced screen use—especially if it’s educational and doesn’t displace sleep or social time—isn’t necessarily a problem. But it’s important for families to stay aware of how and why children are using screens.
