A recent study published in Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has highlighted the potential risks of excessive screen time in young children. The research tracked 300 parents of children aged two to five over a year, finding that those who frequently relied on digital devices to pacify their children’s tantrums struggled more with managing anger and frustration. The study suggests that this approach, often used to distract children from poor behavior, only exacerbates the issue. The early years are crucial for developing self-control, where children learn to recognize emotions and respond deliberately rather than impulsively.
“Tantrums cannot be cured by digital devices,” said Veronika Konok, the study’s lead author. “Children must learn to manage their negative emotions with the help of their parents, not a digital device.” The study recommends that parents should guide their children through frustrating moments, helping them recognize and handle their emotions rather than avoiding the situation. This involves being proactive and supportive, allowing children to build strong emotional regulation skills that contribute to better mental health and well-being in the long run.
Digital Devices to Soothe Tantrums
Clinical psychologists agree that over-reliance on digital devices for emotional regulation can impair children’s ability to recognize and manage emotions effectively later in life. This may manifest in difficulties with anger management, emotional control, and overall emotional well-being. Dr. Shweta Sharma warns that “over-reliance on digital devices for emotional regulation could potentially impair children’s ability to recognize and manage emotions effectively later in life.” Dr. Rabya Umman suggests that parents should instead be proactive and supportive, helping their children develop essential emotional regulation skills.
The study emphasizes the importance of parents receiving support from health professionals through training and counseling to better navigate their child’s emotional development. This support is crucial in helping parents develop effective strategies for managing their child’s emotions, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more well-adjusted child. By recognizing the potential risks of excessive screen time and taking proactive steps to support their child’s emotional development, parents can set their children up for a lifetime of healthy emotional regulation.
