Real risk to youth mental health is addictive use, not screen time alone, study finds

A study published in JAMA reveals that the addictive use of technology, rather than mere screen time, significantly correlates with suicidal behavior among American youth. Researchers tracked over 4,000 children and discovered that those identifying their technology use as "addictive" had a higher incidence of suicidal thoughts. Nearly half of the children surveyed reported high levels of addictive behavior, particularly with mobile phones, leading to a two to three times greater likelihood of self-harm by age 14. Lead author Yunyu Xiao noted that childhood presents unique challenges in managing addictive behavior due to the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex. Experts advocate for interventions focusing on these addictive behaviors rather than simply limiting screen access.

This perspective shifts responsibility towards technology companies, prompting calls for age-appropriate designs that reduce risky features. Policymakers can draw on lessons from the UK, which enacted a code addressing these concerns in 2020. Addressing addictive use may prove crucial in mitigating youth mental health crises.