Impact of Elevated Screen Time on School-Age Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analytical Study.

INTRODUCTION

The rise in digital technology use, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has heightened concerns about extended "screen time" (ST) among adolescents. Excessive screen use is linked to negative physical and cognitive effects, yet digital media also offers educational and social advantages. Cultivating healthy digital habits is crucial as technology continues to evolve.

METHODOLOGY

This cross-sectional study was conducted between July and August 2022 among school-going adolescents and a total of 221 participants were assessed through questionnaires, employing statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In the current study, all participants fell within the 16-18 year age group, with 114 (51.6%) being male and 107 (48.4%) female. The majority 209 (94.5%) identified as Hindu, while the rest were from Muslim and Christian communities. Most participants, both male and female, resided in urban areas, 140 (63.3%) were pursuing Class 12, and 73 (33.1%) were pursuing Class 11. Mobile phones were the most commonly owned devices, followed by desktops or laptops and tablets. Males generally spend more time on these devices than females. Notably, 168 (76.01%) adolescents exceeded the recommended 2-hour daily screen time limit set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), with 92 (80.7%) males more likely to do so than 76 (71%) females. The study found a significant link between increased screen time, reduced physical activity, and academic performance, while no association was observed for behavioral risk factors.

CONCLUSION

There is increased digital device use among youth, with many exceeding recommended screen time limits, particularly males. This was significantly linked to reduced physical activity and academic decline, highlighting the need for further research and balanced digital use.