What excessive screen time could really mean for your child’s mental health and behavior

For many families, managing addictive digital behaviors is no longer just about limiting screen time—it’s about protecting children’s mental health.

A growing number of parents are noticing emotional shifts in their kids—sudden outbursts, anxiety, or withdrawal.

While it’s easy to blame too much screen time, a major new study reveals a more complex story.

In some cases, screens aren’t just causing issues—they’re a way children are coping with pain they can’t express.

A review of 117 studies published in Psychological Bulletin found that children under 10 who exceed screen time recommendations are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, and aggression.

The risks are especially high for girls and children ages six to ten.

Understanding the deeper risks behind screen time limits

The research outlines how vulnerable different age groups are. Children under two shouldn’t have any screen exposure aside from video calls.

For kids aged two to five, one hour daily is the limit. By six to ten, anything beyond two hours becomes a concern.

Gaming poses a special risk. Kids who spend long hours in online games may develop deeper emotional problems.

Boys, in particular, seem to use gaming to manage their feelings, which can worsen things in the long run.

“High screen use isn’t just a cause of problems — sometimes, it’s a symptom,” said lead author Roberta Pires Vasconcellos via email, noting one of the most striking findings.

Children often turn to screens for fun and digital coping, especially when they’re feeling sad, anxious, or emotionally isolated.

And while this provides short-term relief, it can trap them in a cycle that delays real healing.

Managing addictive digital behaviors starts with changing habits

While the study didn’t account for income or parenting styles, it offers powerful lessons. One key takeaway: Don’t use screens for emotional regulation.

Handing a tablet to a crying child might stop the tears, but it prevents them from learning how to deal with emotions in healthier ways.

Experts also warn against excessive gaming. Many online games operate in real-time, encouraging kids to stay connected even when tired or distracted from schoolwork.

Vasconcellos cautions that screen time addiction may go unnoticed when parents rely too heavily on devices to calm or entertain children.

That overreliance might mask deeper emotional needs.

Signs of Progress Begin with Stronger Parenting Boundaries

Parenting screen limits don’t mean banning technology altogether—it means setting clear rules and sticking to them.

Using built-in parental controls, setting time limits, and blocking addictive apps like video streaming platforms are all helpful tools.

Vasconcellos recommends swapping out those apps for more educational or purposeful content.

She also emphasizes that consistency is key. “When boundaries are steady, kids are more likely to follow them,” she said.

Another important signal: If a child reaches for a screen every time they’re upset, it may be time to check-in. The behavior might reflect a gap in emotional support that needs attention.

School counselors or child therapists can help families uncover healthier coping tools in those moments.

This is especially important when managing addictive digital behaviors that might stem from unspoken struggles.

Managing addictive digital behaviors starts by redefining healthy family routines

Helping kids move away from screen dependence can feel hard, especially when they push back. But small steps can make a big difference.

CNN‘s Kara Alaimo, a communication professor and parenting researcher, encourages parents to be firm—even if it’s unpopular.

“It may provoke kicking and screaming in the moment, but it will likely lead to better mental health in the long run,” Alaimo said.

She understands that many parents feel pressure to give younger kids phones earlier, especially when older siblings have them at the same age. But she argues that the approach doesn’t reflect what we now know.

Instead of simply saying “no,” Alaimo suggests offering exciting alternatives.

One mother gave her daughter $1,600 to delay getting a phone until age 16. Others try sleepovers or camping trips to create joyful, screen-free memories.

Ultimately, Alaimo believes the biggest shift parents can make is to rethink their family’s relationship with technology.

Moving Forward with Hope and Balance

Managing addictive digital behaviors isn’t about removing screens entirely. It’s about helping kids build the tools to face the world without needing a coping device.

This journey isn’t always easy—but it’s worth it.

With clear rules, emotional support, and honest conversations, families can break the cycle of screen dependence.

Along the way, they’ll help their kids grow into confident, emotionally healthy individuals.

And most importantly, they’ll prove that hope and healing are possible—even in a screen-filled world.

Here’s a quick video from TODAY offering a ground-breaking look at how screen time affects kids’ brains—an important insight for managing addictive digital behaviors: