In a recent study published in JAMA Network Open , researchers investigated whether reducing the use of screen media for leisure improves mental health in adolescents and children. Their results indicate that reducing screen time led to fewer behavioral difficulties, with noticeable decreases in peer-related and emotional issues and improvements in positive social interactions. Many children and teenagers worldwide are experiencing worsening mental health.
In the US, nearly 30% of adolescents reported poor mental health in a recent survey, and in Europe, 25% of young teens experienced psychological issues like nervousness and trouble sleeping. Adolescence is a sensitive period, and digital technology use has surged, with screen media becoming central to daily life for entertainment and communication. Concerns have arisen about the negative effects of screen media on mental health, though research findings are mixed.
Some studies show a link between high screen use and poor mental health, but they are mostly observational. Further research is needed to understand whether reducing screen use can benefit adolescents' and children's mental well-being. Researchers analyzed the Short-term Efficacy of Reducing Screen-Based Media Use (SCREENS) trial, a detailed study involving 89 families in Southern Denmark.
This trial used the cluster randomization method, where families were assigned randomly to either reduce their screen time or continue with their existing habits. In the interve.
