A recent study reveals that using digital devices to calm children’s tantrums can worsen their behavior. While it’s a common quick fix, experts warn it is short-sighted. The study observed 265 children under five and found that those calmed with digital devices had poorer emotional control after a year, showing more anger outbursts and difficulty regulating feelings. Nearly 90% of 3-4-year-olds in the UK regularly use the internet to watch videos.

How Digital Devices Harm

Dr. Veronika Konok from Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest states, “Tantrums cannot be cured by digital devices. Children need to learn to manage their negative emotions.” Regularly using devices to stop tantrums hinders this learning process, leading to severe emotion regulation issues, especially anger management problems. This study aligns with concerns from UK teachers about worsening child behavior in schools post-COVID-19 lockdown.

Not only children are affected; parental screen time significantly impacts family dynamics. Research shows a direct link between parents’ device use and behavioral issues in both parents and children. Parents engrossed in their devices tend to respond harshly and impatiently, leaving children feeling marginalized, which exacerbates disruptive behavior. Excessive digital engagement by parents can lead to emotional and behavioral difficulties in children, affecting their self-esteem and interpersonal relationships.

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Source: Times Now

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