Screen time has quickly become integrated into everyday family life, whether it’s a few YouTube videos before dinner or a learning app that promises brain-boosting results. But how is this ever-growing dependence on screens for entertainment, comfort and even connection impacting our children’s brains?
As digital devices become ever more embedded in childhood, a pressing question emerges: is screen time just a modern convenience, or is it quietly reshaping the way children’s brains develop?
Ahead of Screen-Free Week (May 5-11), we reached out to Dr Samir Shah, consultant psychiatrist and medical director at Priory Hospital Altrincham to see what he thinks…
Can screen time actually ‘rewire’ a child’s brain?
“Yes and regular screen use can especially influence and affect how a child’s brain develops and functions,” says Shah. “Research has shown regular screen time and excessive screen time can change both the physical structure of the brain such as areas responsible for memory and planning, and how different parts of the brain communicate with each other.
“We sometimes call this brain network connectivity. It’s a bit like redirecting traffic during roadworks, the routes change and sometimes this leads to unexpected consequences.”
Does excessive screen time affect cognitive development – like memory, and attention span?
“Excessive screen time has been linked to shorter attention spans, weaker problem solving abilities and difficulty switching between tasks,” highlights Shah. “It can affect attention shifting, focus and cognitive abilities.
“It is similar to only exercising one muscle group, and other important mental muscles like focus, delayed gratification and self-control can weaken if they are not used enough.”
What role does dopamine or the brain’s reward system play in screen-time habits?
“Regular screen use triggers the release of dopamine which is the brain’s ‘feel-good’ chemical,” says Shah. “This then creates a cycle of craving more screen time to get that same buzz or effect. It is a bit like checking the door repeatedly and hoping for an exciting visitor.
“Over time, real world and realistic activities can start to feel less rewarding by comparison. This is why children and teenagers who use screens regularly struggle to maintain or build meaningful social connections.”
Can it contribute to anxiety or mood disorders in children?
“Research has shown us that teenagers and children who spend more than four hours per day on screens are more likely to experience higher levels of anxiety and depression,” highlights Shah. “The constant and persistent stimulation of digital screens can leave young minds feeling overstimulated with higher dopamine levels but emotionally unfulfilled.”
Children who spend a lot of time on screens can also sometimes find it harder to manage frustration, irritation and pick up on social cues, adds Shah.
“Less face-to-face and direct interaction means fewer opportunities and chances to practise important social and executive skills like empathy and resolving conflicts,” explains Shah.
Is the brain of a child more vulnerable to these screen exposure effects than that of an adult?
“Children’s brains are like sponges that are soaking up experiences at an incredible rate,” says Shah. “Key developmental periods particularly before the age of five and during the pre-teen years are when the brain undergoes the most rapid growth.
“Too much screen time during these stages could have longer-lasting effects compared to adults.”
Are there any visible changes in brain scans of children who consume large amounts of screen time?
“Research has shown that MRI scans noted physical changes in the brains of children who spend a lot of time on screens,” says Shah. “These include thinner areas involved in decision-making, altered connections in regions that control focus, attention and less grey matter in areas crucial for language.
“While this does not necessarily mean damage, it does suggest that heavy screen use can lead to the brain adapting in different ways. It can be seen as altered adaptations and disruption.”
What may be right way to approach this?
“The key here is balance and careful management,” advises Shah. “Encourage outdoor play, family meals without devices, set clear screen-free times or as we call it digital detox, such as before bed.”
The type of screen use matters too, he adds.
“A video call with grandparents is very different from hours of mindless scrolling on social media, especially that is too quick to move from one topic to another,” says Shah. “Think of screens like sugar, which is fine in moderation but harmful in excess.”
