Does your child have a video game addiction? Researchers use several different terms to describe this problem, but whatever the label, it can have serious consequences, and a disturbing number of kids are symptomatic. Learn the signs of pathological gaming, and how we can help kids lead more balanced lives.
Research indicates that screen time can cause sleep problems for children. Exposure to artificial light at night is part of the trouble, but so is the sleep-disturbing nature of electronic content. And individual differences mean that some children are affected more than others. Read more about the risk factors, and the steps you can take to minimize sleep disruption.
No need to point fingers, because we’ve all done it: Ignoring people around us while we focus on a technological device. When we ignore or snub folks with our smartphones, it’s called “phubbing,” and since many of us carry our smartphones everywhere, phubbing has become very common. But — no surprise! — phubbing can erode … Continue reading
Do violent video games have any negative effects on kids? Parenting Science takes a critical look at the research.
When we rely on electronic media to calm kids down, our children may fail to learn crucial lessons about self-regulation. They may also develop symptoms of dependency…throwing severe tantrums when we take their media away.
What are the effects of video games on social behavior? Research suggests that some games encourage kids to be helpful and kind.
Studies report a link between TV and language development in young children. The more time kids spend watching television, the more slowly they learn to talk. What’s going on? Some people conclude that the effects of television on children are direct and negative. According to this view, television is noxious, like cigarette smoke. Cigarettes damage … Continue reading
How does television affect sleep? In adults, it can push back bedtimes and disrupt sleep patterns. In young children, even more can go wrong. Here’s what to look out for.
Studies suggest that both children and adults are happier when they reduce exposure to violent television content. Media creators serve up lots of television violence, and there’s reason for concern. Exposure to media violence may cause sleep problems in young children. It also puts kids at higher risk for developing behavior problems. Defenders argue that … Continue reading
Assessing the beneficial effects of video games Some parents worry about video games, and their worries aren’t unwarranted. Video games can be engrossing, so much so that kids neglect other activities, like school work, chores, exercise, and sleep. There is also experimental evidence that playing violent video games has an immediate, negative influence on our … Continue reading
Someday, educational video games may revolutionize the way we teach our kids. Are there any good games available now?