AAP Study Highlights Concerns Around Screen Time Habits in Early Adolescence

Technology is part of everyday life for most children and teens, but new research highlighted by the American Academy of Pediatrics is raising concerns about what experts call “problematic screen use” in early adolescence. Rather than focusing only on total screen time, researchers examined screen behaviors that begin interfering with sleep, mood, relationships, or daily functioning.

The study followed more than 8,000 children ages 11–12 and found that higher problematic use of phones, social media, and video games was associated with increased risks of mental health and behavioral concerns over time. Researchers noted that early adolescence may be an especially important time for families and healthcare providers to encourage healthy digital habits and balanced routines.  

The SPDocs team wanted to share this article from AAP News as a helpful resource for parents navigating technology use with tweens and teens.

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