OBJECTIVE

This paper aimed to review and synthesize screen time research among children and youth with disabilities.

METHODS

Seven online databases were searched, and a machine learning-assisted systematic review model was used to identify relevant studies. English and French papers reporting on screen time among children and youth with a disability were eligible. Extracted data were synthesized by participant age, followed by type of screen time reporting. Meta-analyses were conducted to estimate daily screen time and adherence to screen time guidelines using random effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eighty-one studies were included. Screen time ranged from 0.5 to 7.27 h/day and varied widely based on disability type. Pooled average screen time was 3.70, 3.28 and 3.39 h/day for children and youth with ASD, ADHD and CP, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Screen use is prominent among children and youth with disabilities. Limiting screen time in this group is critical in preventing numerous related consequences of excessive, prolonged use.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Interventions targeting children and youth with disabilities are needed to decrease excessive screen time among this population and to inform future public health policy and setting-specific practice.