Keywords

Screen time, children, adolescents. technology, advertising, development, social skills, aggression, United States, Australia, regulations, physical health, obesity

Disciplines

Pediatrics

Mentor

Dr. Deborah Lown

Abstract

Technology and screen time have become an essential part of everyday life in many countries across the world. Children in Australia and the United States are exposed to increasing hours of technology exceeding recommendations by pediatricians in both countries. Pediatricians suggest limiting screen time due to the research indicating possible impact on social development, and unhealthy emotional and physical outcomes in children. The objective of this paper was to review the mental and physical impacts of screen time on young and adolescent children and to compare and contrast policies regulating screen time in the United States and Australia. The information collected for this project was taken from online databases, websites, and books as well as a reflection from the author’s experience in both the BOUNCE youth program of Australia and Helen Devos Children’s Hospital of the United States. The results of this project conclude that young children and adolescents in both countries are suffering both emotional and physical harm for excessive screen time. Additionally, the educational benefits of educational software are small and limited to young children in low socioeconomic status with poor access to early education. Finally, neither country has adequate policies to protect children, therefore the burden is on parents to follow pediatric guidelines for restriction of screen time.

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