Studies show that children under 2 years old who are exposed to electronic device screens such as phones or tablets are at risk of changes in brain structure, delayed decision-making, and increased anxiety later in life.
Screen time at too young an age can lead to delayed decision-making and anxiety in teenagers - Photo: FREEPIK
A long-term study in Singapore has just indicated that excessive screen time on electronic devices such as phones or tablets in children under 2 years old can alter brain structure, leading to delayed decision-making and an increased risk of anxiety during adolescence.
According to scientists from the Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP) at A*STAR and the National University of Singapore (NUS), the period under 2 years old is when the brain develops most rapidly and is highly sensitive to environmental factors.
The GUSTO study, the largest child development study in Singapore, tracked 168 children from birth to age 13. The results showed that children exposed to excessive screen time experienced rapid development in visual processing networks, but this development negatively impacted brain regions controlling cognition and emotions.
By age 8, these children struggle with decision-making on cognitive tests. By age 13, they exhibit significant anxiety and have difficulty adapting to new social environments or forming friendships.
Dr. Tan Ai Peng, the lead researcher, stated: "Screens provide excessive visual stimulation but lack real-world interaction elements such as touch, facial expressions, or reciprocal communication. This leads to unbalanced brain development."
However, research also indicates that the negative effects of screen time can be mitigated if parents maintain a habit of reading with their children from the age of 3. Additionally, direct interactive activities can have positive effects, such as playing LEGO together, jogging or swimming together, or pursuing shared family hobbies.
Although research warns about the impact of electronic devices, experts are not calling for a complete ban on their use. Instead, they recommend that parents implement responsible electronic device usage guidelines.
The Singapore Ministry of Health recommends that children under 18 months old should not be exposed to screens, and children aged 2-6 should only use them for a maximum of one hour per day. Additionally, the Ministry advises parents to prioritize programs with minimal stimulating images and slow transitions. Instead of letting children watch alone, parents should sit with them, explain the content, and ask questions.