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Screen Time: Is It Making Your Child More Aggressive?

Parents today face a challenging reality: digital screens are everywhere, and children are spending more time than ever plugged into devices. A groundbreaking international study reveals some startling connections between screen time and children's mental health that every parent should know.

July 01, 2025

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Researchers Michael Noetel and Roberta Vasconcellos analyzed data from 292,000 children worldwide, uncovering a troubling link between screen exposure and children's emotional well-being. The study found that increased screen time, especially from gaming consoles, correlates with higher rates of aggression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

"Children are spending more time on screens for everything from entertainment to messaging friends," explains Dr. Noetel. The research discovered a concerning cycle: children with emotional problems turn to screens as a coping mechanism, which can further worsen their mental health.

Gaming Consoles: A Special Concern

The study highlighted gaming consoles as particularly problematic. Unlike educational apps or TV shows, console games showed stronger connections to emotional challenges. Dr. Vasconcellos emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to managing children's screen time.

What Parents Can Do:

1. Monitor screen time carefully

2. Create technology-free family moments

3. Talk to your children about their online experiences

4. Encourage alternative activities

5. Watch for signs of emotional distress

The Bigger Picture

Screen time isn't just about hours spent staring at a device. It's about understanding how digital experiences impact your child's emotional development. The study reveals that simply cutting screen time isn't enough - parents need to address underlying social and emotional challenges.

Empower Your Parenting Journey

Are you ready to help your child build stronger emotional resilience? Kidnections offers a free 9 Day Mindset Makeover that can transform how you support your child's mental health and digital well-being.

Sign up now at https://www.kidnections.org/ and get expert strategies to raise happier, healthier kids prepared for today's complex world.

Your child's future starts with understanding and connection. Take the first step today!

Bullet Points:

  • An international study found a substantial link between increased screen time and children's aggression, low self-esteem, and anxiety.

  • Researchers Michael Noetel and Roberta Vasconcellos analyzed data from 292,000 children globally for this study.

  • It was specifically noted that time spent on gaming consoles escalates risks of socioemotional issues more than other screen activities.

  • Addressing both screen exposure and underlying socioemotional problems is emphasized to facilitate healthier development in children.

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