By Michael D. Zito, Ph.D.
In my experience, parents often struggle to set limits on electronic devices, which can cause significant family stress. Setting limits is important, as recent research has shown that excessive use of cell phones, social media, and electronic games can have significant adverse effects on children. These include: increased anxiety and depression, risk-taking behaviors, suicidal risk and behaviors, aggression, and rule-breaking behavior. Excessive use can also negatively affect sleep patterns, academic and cognitive abilities, social and family relationships and physical health due to sedentary behavior.
So you may be wondering what is excessive? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following daily limits on high-quality programming (non-violent and non-addictive content): Children ages 2-5 have no more than 1 hour, and children ages 6-10 have 1-2 hours. For 11-18 year olds, there’s no fixed number of hours; it's more a functional definition of excessive use. Specifically, if a preteen or teen cannot maintain regular and healthy sleep patterns, academic performance, physical activity, or social relationships, their screen and social media use is likely excessive.
What can parents do?
- Have a serious conversation with your partner about the adverse effects of excessive use to promote consistent parenting.
- Make a concrete plan that you both agree on to limit and, most importantly, monitor usage.
- Gain electronic access to all electronics, meaning take control of all devices by setting electronic limits on them and securing all passwords.
- Use electronic (Wi-Fi, cellular) access to control devices with hours and time-of-day restrictions.
- Use electronics as a reward, within the limits established, after completing necessary tasks and positive behaviors, such as homework, cleaning up, cooperation and/or showing respect.
- Recognize that setting limits teaches valuable life skills, particularly self-discipline.
- Monitor all preteen and teen social media, even if they are not happy about it.
- Have electronic-free time at home.
- Remove and secure all electronic devices at night.
- Be aware of the electronic use you are modeling for your children. Lead by example by setting your own limits.
If you struggle with setting electronic limits on your children, and/or your child is having difficulty accepting limits, seek the services of a professional to guide you through the process.
Michael D. Zito, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist (#3599) with offices in Warren and Morristown. He practices clinical and sport psychology with children through adults and can be reached at MichaelZitoPhD@yahoo.com Dr. Zito welcomes your questions and ideas for future articles.
