Caught in the Screen Trap: How Smartphone Addiction Fuels ADHD and Emotional Dysregulation in Young Minds

Smartphone addiction has become a growing concern recently, especially with its increasing prevalence among children. This study investigates the dual burden of Smartphone Addiction's Effects on ADHD and Emotional Dysregulation EDR in children in Saudi Arabia. The study followed a descriptive analytical approach. Data were collected from 180 children (aged 9-12 years) diagnosed with ADHD by their teachers, using validated scales for assessing ADHD symptoms, EDR, and the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SPA), which was completed by the students themselves. The study results revealed that 36.18% of children with ADHD suffer from smartphone addiction, which was significantly associated with worsening emotional dysregulation, including inadequate emotional participation, reduced control over behavior, externalization of emotional response style, and feeling neglected. Structural equation modeling confirmed a bidirectional relationship, with ADHD symptoms contributing to smartphone addiction, and excessive screen use contributing to impaired emotional regulation. The results highlighted an important detail: limiting screen time to less than two hours per day reduced ADHD symptoms by 37%. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to mitigate smartphone addiction in children with ADHD, emphasizing the importance of balanced screen use and emotion regulation strategies. These insights contribute to the growing debate about digital health and mental health among young people.