A Study on Screen Time and Its Relationship with Obesity, Mental Health in School Children of Age Group 6-12 Years in Chennai

Abstract

Introduction: The increasing use of electronic devices has raised concerns about its effects onchildren’s health, including obesity and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Guidelines recommend that children should limit their exposure to quality programming on television to only two hours per day. Paradoxically, studies reveal that children aged 8- 18 years spend an average of 6.5 hours daily engaged in front of TV screens, computers, mobiles and video games surpassing the time spent on any other activity in their lives. The study shows the relationship between screen time and its impact on obesity , mentalhealth in school children aged 6-12 years in Chennai.

Methods: The research design is cross-sectional, involving children attending outpatient departments (OPD). The sample size is 200 children, selected using purposive sampling. Data collection includes questionnaires on screen time habits, physical activity, and mental   health assessments using standardized tools. Children consenting and willing to participate were included with assent and consent form parents. Anthropometric measurements like height, weight, and BMI were collected to assess obesity risk. The data was collected with SCARED and Strength and Difficulties questionnaire (SDQ) for parent along with demographic details.

Results: The study found that 44% of children exceeded the screen time recommended of 2 hours per day. Boys and girls showed similar screen time patterns. Physical activity levels were low, with 57% of children engaging in less physical activity. Additionally, children with fewer physical activity days were more likely to be obese or underweight, and 76% of children who engaged in screen time before sleep had below-average or poor school performance. Obesity was more prevalent among children with higher screen time and lower physical activity.

Discussion: The findings shows the need of specific interventions to reduce screen time and promote physical activity among children. The study emphasizes on the parental guidance and educational policies to address the health risks which has been associated with screen time excess.