Significant increase in screen time among children | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
News Today Logo

Significant increase in screen time among children

Posted 29 Apr 2024

2 min read

  • In several studies, it has been found that screen time among children is more than 2 hours a day.

 

  • Reasons for the Rise in Screen time among children: 
    • Role Modelling: Children usually imitate their parents/other family members and peer group.
    • Educational or recreational purposes: With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, use of Mobile has witnessed rapid and widespread acceptance.
    • Working parents: They usually provide mobile phones to children’s for different purposes such as safety. 
    • Increased Accessibility: Proliferation of smartphones, tablets, computers, and other digital devices recently.

 

  • Concerns: 
    • Mental and Physical Health Issues:  High exposure may lead to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
      • A sedentary lifestyle may lead to physical health issues like obesity. 
    • Cognitive ability and social skills: High screen time can hinder the development of important Cognitive, social, and emotional skills, such as empathy.
    • Cyber Bullying and Child Abuse: Incidents of bullying and abuse are rising. Young girls are more prone to them. 

 

  • Way Ahead: Emphasis on physical activities, limiting screen time by creating awareness, etc.

 

Initiatives Taken to deal with Concerns associated with screen time

  • World Health Organization (WHO) released guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behavior and sleep for children
  • Manodarpan Initiative, launched by the Ministry of Education to provide psychosocial support to students for Mental Health and Emotional well-being.
  • Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC) scheme, is an initiative of the Ministry of Home Affairs to provide children with a safe and secure online environment. 

 

  • Tags :
  • Mental health
  • Screen Time
  • Cyber Bullying
Watch News Today