The association between screen time and cognitive function in children: The partially mediating role of putamen volume

This study investigates the association between screen time and cognitive function and examines whether putamen volume, which decreases with increased screen time, mediates this relationship. Using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study of nearly 10,000 children aged 9–10 years, screen time was assessed through self-report questionnaires, and cognitive function—including working memory, processing speed, language, executive function, and episodic memory—was ƒmeasured using the National Institutes of Health toolbox. Linear mixed-effects models were used to analyze the association between screen time and cognitive function, and mediation effects of putamen volume were evaluated. Screen time was significantly negatively associated with all domains of cognitive function. The volume of putamen partially mediated the relationship between screen time and executive function ( β = −0.015, false discovery rate [FDR] p = .027), processing speed ( β = −0.012, FDR p = .027), and language ( β = −0.005, FDR p = .027). Excessive screen time was negatively associated with cognitive function in children, with putamen volume involving in the association of screen time with executive function, language and processing speed. These findings could inform strategies to promote healthy screen habits and support cognitive function and brain development in children. • Screen time is negatively associated with all cognitive function domains. • Putamen partially mediated the association of screen time with cognitive function. • This study used data from the ABCD study with nearly 10,000 children. • Findings inform strategies for healthier screen use in children.