PROMOTING HEALTHY SCREEN HABITS AMONGST CHILDREN: A GUIDE TO MITIGATING EXCESSIVE SCEEN TIME AND PERCIEVED ADDICTION

Resumen

The extensive espousal of digital technologies has transformed the socialization and learn patterns of children; leading to substantial increase in screen time. Obviously, the easy access to various technological devices and their appealing nature, has amplified children's susceptibilities to their uses as interactive and teaching models. However, children's excessive screen time has become a global concern; due to the substantial risks it poses on their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. The aim of this study is to provide effective strategies that could save children from excessive screen time and its perceived addiction. This study is a quantitative survey that used simple percentage to analyse the questionnaire items administered to one hundred randomly selected parents in Owerri Municipal. Attachment theory and the concept of Screen Time Addiction gave credence to the fact that excessive screen time is capable of disrupting children's socio-psychological development. Hence, it critically examines the risks and implications on the developmental process of children, which include but not limited to; sleep deprivation, physical inactivity, social isolation, academic distractions and possible addictions. The paper establishes the need for tactical solutions towards children's excessive screen time. This could be achieved through the implementation of measures such as; screen time limits, physical activities, indoor games, and other cognitive behavioural therapies. It recommends the collaborative efforts of parents, caregivers, educators and healthcare professionals to create and enforce strategies that could mitigate the complexities of this subject matter, in order to promote healthy screen habits among children.