Study Finds Too Much “Screen Time” Affects Physical, Mental Health
September 3rd, 2009 |
A GoodTherapy.org News Headline
The rising popularity of computer games and the seemingly ever-present fixture of television within the home may be hindrances to children’s health, suggests a new study performed on young “couch potatoes.” The study evaluated the habits of a large group of adolescents, taking into account their average time spent on the computer and in front of the television screen along with their parents’ assessments and reports of physical and mental activity and performance. The results show a direct relationship between “screen time” and lower physical and mental health; something which may serve as extra motivation for encouraging kids to spend more time out of doors.
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4 comments so far
Good stuff. I totally agree. I did not allow my kid to watch television until he was around 4 or 5 years old. (although I’m sure he got some at friends houses) even now as he hits elementary school I try to limit his television intake. I’ve seen his intelligence and activity level compared to some of his friends, not to belittle them or their parents, but I certainly think my son is brighter and more alive than if he sat around everyday after school. He’s actually interested in life, unlike far to many youngins I’ve seen. He’s out side playing with the dog or making mud pies while many of his acquaintances stay home to play video games with their older siblings.
I agree with the writer. As a parent of a teenager, I know how it is to see them spending endless hours gaming and watching television. It deprives them of sufficient sleep, a lack of interest in their academics and also gives headaches due to continuous concentration on the screen(especially during gaming). These things need to be avoided if there has to be any hope of a nation of young people who are physically and mentally fit. Apart from reducing the time they are allowed on the computer and television, it is also important to encourage them to go out and play outdoor games and also a few math games and puzzles if possible.
Before getting on your high horses about kids’ screen time, think how much TV you adults veg out in front of in a week. Are you out there doing activities and puzzles instead? Didn’t think so. Give the kids a break.
When I was a kid the most we had was Atari. It was more fun to get outside in the fresh air and play games. Games are so sophisticated now that outside activities don’t appeal to children.