Addicted to Pixels: Understanding Screen Addiction and Strategies for Prevention

The study sought to define screen addiction and identify its different types, along with its global and regional prevalence, specifically in children and adolescents. By exploring the different causes of screen addiction, the study examined its consequences on physical health, mental health, and societal effects within these age groups. The efficacy of various interventions and treatments used to treat screen addiction was also investigated, and areas requiring future research were proposed. A qualitative literature search was conducted to explore different aspects of screen addiction in children and adolescents using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Peer-reviewed, free full articles relevant to the topic from 2014 to 2024 in English were selected. The findings indicated that screen addiction in children and adolescents, characterized by excessive use of digital devices, leads to significant physical, mental, and social outcomes. Prevalence rates varied, with higher rates observed among teenagers compared to younger children. Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and personality traits; social factors including peer influence and family dynamics; and technological factors such as device design and accessibility were identified as contributors to screen addiction. The physical health problems included sleep disturbances, eye strain, and reduced physical activity; mental health issues encompassed increased anxiety, depression, and attention deficits; while social impacts involved strained family relationships and academic challenges. Various interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, screen time monitoring apps, and educational programs for parents and children, showed varying levels of efficacy. The study concludes that although technology offers many advantages, it also presents challenges like screen addiction in children and adolescents, leading to numerous physical, mental, and social problems. A more holistic approach is needed to increase the effectiveness of interventions in clinical practice. Further research, including longitudinal studies in diverse populations, is required to better understand and reduce the prevalence and impacts of screen addiction in young people.