“Some children don’t speak but repeat what they hear on YouTube”

A misperception of social codes

It has also been shown that excessive screen usage can cause problems with sleep, vision, as well as posture and lead to excessive weight. Moreover, when they are in front of a screen, children are not in direct contact with other people, which can limit their social skills. “Social codes are acquired through interaction; the more isolated a child is behind a screen, the less exposed he or she is to this natural learning process.” Also, what is shown in cartoons or science fiction can blur the perception of normal social relations and social codes. “This can mean that a child may no longer know how to ask a friend to play with him. These are extreme cases, but they are becoming more common.”

The risk of addiction

With regards to violent video games, which are “very stimulating, very fast and popular with older children”, research shows that they can induce attention and aggression disorders. “As for social networks, they can lead to anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. Not to mention that the risk of addictive behaviour towards these contents and games is very real.”

Long-term effects

However, the long-term effects on the brain, memory, cognitive abilities and emotional and mental disorders are still poorly understood, the doctor explains. “It is also not clear what the effects of screen exposure are on academic achievement or IQ, nor what role screens play in relation to other factors such as genetics and family environment.”

The potential benefits to children, which are understudied, are also unknown. “For example, how can they help children with sensory disabilities or suffering from certain diseases, especially through remote communication? I remain optimistic.”