A new global study suggests heavy screen use isn’t just a bad habit—it may be a sign of deeper distress in kids. The research, published in Psychological Bulletin, looked at data from more than 300,000 children. It found a two-way link: excessive screen time can lead to emotional problems, and emotional problems can lead to more screen time.
Screens as a Coping Mechanism
Many children don’t use devices just for fun. Instead, screens may serve as emotional crutches. Michael Noetel, associate professor of psychology at the University of Queensland and coauthor of the study, compares it to “comfort eating, but with devices.” Children often turn to screens when they feel anxious, lonely, or sad.
This creates a cycle. The more they use devices to cope, the more their social and emotional skills weaken. Over time, they rely on screens even more.
What the Study Found
The study analyzed 117 long-term studies focused on children aged 10 and younger. It tracked their screen use and emotional development over time. The most common issues linked to screen use included aggression, hyperactivity, anxiety, and depression.
Roberta Pires Vasconcellos, coauthor and lecturer at the University of New South Wales, explained that high screen time pushes out healthy habits like sleep, exercise, and real social interaction. These are crucial for emotional growth.
The Dopamine Effect
Tom Kersting, a licensed psychotherapist and author of Raising Healthy Teenagers, says today’s digital apps are designed to hook kids. They trigger dopamine, the brain’s reward chemical. He compares screens to a “never-ending IV drip of dopamine.” When that drip is cut off, kids crash—often with anger or aggression.
Screen Time Guidelines Do Help
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises no screens for children under 2 and only one hour per day for ages 2 to 5. The study found these limits work. Children who stayed within the guidelines showed fewer emotional problems. But going far beyond them—four hours or more daily—significantly increased risks.
Noetel notes that the effects aren’t immediate. “Like sugar or sun exposure, a little is fine. But too much builds damage over time.”
Some Children Face Greater Risk
Girls were more emotionally affected by screen use. Boys were more likely to use screens when already struggling emotionally. Older children also had stronger negative outcomes, likely because they get less supervision and more access to mature content.
At age 4, misbehavior may still be considered normal. But by age 8, expectations rise—especially in school. Emotional problems that were once overlooked now create social friction.
Not All Screen Use Is Equal
Gaming posed the highest risk. Online multiplayer games, in particular, drew in emotionally vulnerable kids. Noetel explained that these games meet needs like belonging or success—needs they may not find elsewhere.
Vasconcellos agreed. Games can offer a sense of mastery, especially to kids who feel like they don’t fit in elsewhere.
The Role of Parents
How kids use screens—and whether parents are involved—makes a big difference. Noetel says co-viewing or playing together changes the experience. It becomes shared, not isolating.
These moments help kids learn emotional skills. Vasconcellos noted they also offer chances to teach kids how to handle digital challenges and their emotions.
Red Flags to Watch For
If your child is glued to screens, look deeper. They may be trying to tell you something. Aggression and fidgeting are clear signs, but quieter issues like anxiety and low self-worth matter too.
Watch for signs of avoidance. Skipping sports or parties to watch videos may suggest deeper emotional trouble.
Cutting Screens Isn’t Enough
Just reducing screen time may not fix the problem. If kids are using screens to cope, taking them away without support could make things worse. Vasconcellos compares it to treating a fever without addressing the underlying illness.
Instead, offer emotional support. Help kids name their feelings, talk them out, or manage stress through breathing, drawing, or physical play.
A Better Way to Use Screens
Screen time advice needs more nuance. Not all screen use is harmful. Noetel offers a simple system:
- Green light: Educational content and co-viewing with family
- Yellow light: Regular shows or games that need limits
- Red light: Social media and video games—occasional only
“Think of red light screens like dessert,” he said. “Great sometimes, not every day.”
Real-Life Connections Still Matter Most
Digital content can be helpful, but it’s no substitute for real relationships. Kersting says kids build emotional strength on the playground—not the screen.
Children need time outdoors, time with peers, and time with family. That’s where they learn to manage feelings, bounce back from setbacks, and grow stronger.
Conclusion
Excessive screen time may be a red flag, not just a bad habit. Watch for emotional struggles behind the behavior. Offer support, not just restrictions. And remember: real-world connection is still the most powerful tool for a child’s mental health.
Sources:
- Psychological Bulletin (2025). Meta-analysis of screen use and socio-emotional outcomes in children under 10.