Evaluation of Screen Habits of Children Aged 0-12 and Parental Attitudes on the Subject: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Objective: Developments in communication and information network technologies have an important place and time in the daily lives of all individuals, including children. Exposure to screen at an early age and viewing duration are significant issues in children's development and well-being. This study aims to gain insight about the screen habits of 0-12 year old children and to determine their screen-related health and behavioral features. Material and Methods: This research, designed as a cross-sectional and descriptive, was carried out between 01.01.2023 and 30.04.2024 within the scope of the social responsibility project carried out by medical students. A structured questionnaire was prepared by conducting a literature review. The data were analyzed through a statistical package program, and the details were presented in the text. Results: A total of 685 parents participated in the study. The study group consisted of children with a median age of 15 months. When looking at the screen habits of the children, it was seen that 73.6% (n=504) of the participants’ first exposure to screens was before the age of 2 and 63.5% (n=435) had a daily viewing time more than 120 minutes. It was also found that parents' exposure to screens was intense. Although there was no significant difference in developmental stages, variables such as obesity, body aches, and use of glasses were seen to be more common in those who were in long screen viewing groups. Conclusion: In this study, it was observed that the age of children's early exposure to screens and the length of viewing time gradually increased over time. It is noteworthy that variables such as families' perception of the screen as a developmental and educational tool have improved over time. The increase in technological opportunities and accessibility reveals that all professional groups related to children need to renew themselves in counseling families in this dynamic process. © 2024 by Türkiye Klinikleri.