66% of urban parents believe that their children aged 9 to 17 have become addicted to social media, OTT platforms, and gaming. This is leading to issues like impatience, anger, and lethargy.

Children are becoming increasingly aggressive due to increased screen time

With changing lifestyles, everyone, including children, is spending more and more time on smartphones and social media. Indeed, even children are spending a significant amount of time on mobile phones, tablets, and computers. This is leading to a growing addiction to social media, video, and online gaming, according to the latest Local Circles survey (2024). 

What came out in the survey?

This survey revealed that 66 percent of urban parents believe that their children aged 9 to 17 have become addicted to social media, OTT, and gaming. This is contributing to issues like impatience, anger, and lethargy. Over 70,000 parents participated in this survey, with responses coming from 368 districts. It was found that 47% of children spend 3 hours or more of screen time daily. Meanwhile, 10% of children spend more than 6 hours on screens. It is believed that this addiction began with online classes after the COVID-19 pandemic and continues. Children spend more time watching videos, playing games, and using social media, which is reducing their ability to concentrate.

What did the survey reveal?

• 58% of parents said that children have become more angry.
• 49% said that children are becoming impatient.
• Lethargy increased in 49% of children.
• Symptoms of depression were found in 42%.
• 30% of children became hyperactive.

What does the doctor say?

According to doctors, excessive screen time has a negative impact on the brain. It increases symptoms like lack of attention, impatience, and ADHD. According to Dr. Sameer Malhotra, Head of Psychiatry at Max Hospital, New Delhi, screen time releases an increased amount of the hormone dopamine, which is addictive. This makes children impatient in real life. They lose focus and become angry. Furthermore, screen addiction is increasing emotional problems in children aged 9-17. Impatience affects studies and relationships. Furthermore, excessive screen time disrupts sleep, which increases impatience. 

These methods will protect you

• Limit screen time to 1-2 hours daily.
• Increase outdoor play, reading, and family time.
• Parents should use less screen time themselves.
• Provide good sleep and a healthy diet.
• If the problem is severe, consult a doctor or psychologist.