Frightening warning: Device use in babies causes depression
Swedish doctors announced that children under the age of two should not be allowed to use smartphones and tablets or watch television.
Experts have long pointed out the impact of screen time on children’s development.
Doctors now argue that guiding children to use smart screens is as important as teaching them good eating habits or traffic safety.
The Swedish Association of Paediatricians also advised parents that one hour a day is enough screen time for children between the ages of two and five. Accordingly, children over the age of two should also have limited screen time.
The notice follows a similar move by Danish authorities, who published their own age-related rules in September, allowing youngsters under two to use the devices only in “very special cases” such as those with learning disabilities.
BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS AND THE RISK OF DEPRESSION
“Although digital screens can provide useful information, entertainment, and opportunities to connect with other people, young children’s brains are not yet mature enough to absorb these benefits,” the association’s new report states.
“On the contrary, research shows that children’s development may be negatively affected by the early use of digital screens.”
“It has been found that children who regularly use smartphones, tablets and computer screens are more irritable, have worse concentration and have worse memories.”
Research also shows that children who spend more time in front of screens are also more likely to develop behavioral problems or childhood depression.
Doctors also urged parents and other adults to control their own screen use.
In the statement, “There is a great risk that digital media is used when the child is bored or when adults are not available and therefore serves as a babysitter. “Because digital media often contains rapid cuts and transitions, intense colors and sounds, the risk of developing sensitivity to immediate rewards increases.” warning was made.
