(NewsNation) — A new analysis of more than 110 studies shines new light on the potentially devastating developmental risks associated with extended screen time among children.
The research, published Monday in Psychological Bulletin, a journal of the American Psychological Association, found that the more time children spend looking at a screen, the more likely they are to fall short of developmental expectations.
The most common emotional problems included hyperactivity, depression, anxiety and aggression.
The findings echo a 2023 study published in JAMA Pediatrics, which found a potential link between screen time for young children and developmental delays.
Additionally, a National Center for Health Statistics survey from July 2021 through December 2023 found 50% of teenagers (12–17) had 4 hours or more of daily screen time.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time to no more than two hours per day. This can include various types of screen time, such as TV, movies, video games, and social media.
Florida was the first state to pass a law regulating the use of cellphones in schools in 2023. Just two years later, more than half of all states have laws in place, with more likely to act soon.
Bills have sprinted through legislatures in states as varied as New York and Oklahoma, reflecting a broad consensus that phones are bad for kids.
So far, 26 states have passed laws, with eight other states and the District of Columbia implementing rules or making recommendations to local districts. Of the states, 17 have acted this year.