Why This is Important
Social media and mobile devices may lead to psychological and physical issues, such as eyestrain and difficulty focusing on important tasks. They may also contribute to more serious health conditions, such as depression, obesity, juvenile diabetes.
The overuse of technology may have a more significant impact on developing children and teenagers.
Screen use in children and adolescents is associated with reduced physical activity, increased risk of depression, increased pattern screen-related behavior later in life and lower well-being.
DID YOU KNOW?
A 2017 study of 8th to 12th graders found that high levels of depressive symptoms increased by 33% between 2010 and 2015. The suicide rate for girls in this age group increased by 65%.
And it’s only gotten worse.
Child suicide rates increased by up to 150%, and self-harm by girls ages 10 to 14 nearly tripled. These patterns point to social media.