Adverse Effects Of Digital Addiction On Cognitive Development In Children And Preventive Measure.

Abstract

Background: Adverse effects of digital dependence in children especially excluding using the children’s electronic devices include reduced capability of learning skills, diminished focus and stamina, impaired memory, and social relationships among children. Due to the expanded access to devices, the impact of screen-associated addition on neurocognitive development is important to help youths develop properly.

Objectives: In order to understand the negative impact of dependency on the digital environment on the course and results of children’s learning process and to identify recommendations and methods to minimise these impacts towards better mental and cognitive performance.

Study Design: A Cross-sectional study.

Place and duration of study. Department of Pediatrics ATH Abbottabad from Jan 2022 to July 2022

Methods: A quantitative Study design of cross-sectional was used with a sample of 150 children aged between 6 and 12 years. Children and their parents shared information regarding screen time schedule and their children’s performance on an aptitude test that consists of an attention test, a memory test, and a social development test. The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science version 24.

Results: Participants’ mean age was 9.5 years with a standard deviation of 1.8. Screen time greater than three hours a day was associated with decreased attention span (p = 0.03), memory strength (p = 0.02), and social interaction (p = 0.01). These outcomes indicate that excessive use of digital devices contributes to the presence of specific cognitive threats.

Conclusion: An excess of time spent on screen increases the risk of cognitive loss in a child, for instance, in aspects of their ability to concentrate or their memory and even social skills. Such effects are thus reduced by positive measures, which include limiting screen time and promoting off-screen activities.