In the modern digital age, screens have become an integral part of daily life for many people. Whether it is a smartphone, tablet, computer, or television, screens are used extensively throughout the day.

While screen use has its advantages, such as connecting with people in distant places and accessing information with ease, excessive screen use is not without its drawbacks.

Screen Time And Poor Grades

One of the biggest problems associated with excessive screen use is its effect on academic performance, particularly among school students.

In recent years, studies have shown that the amount of screen time individuals devote to smartphones, computers, tablets, and televisions is directly linked to their grades. School students who spend more time engaging with screens usually perform poorly in academic settings.

According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, students who dedicate more than two hours to screen time daily are more likely to develop attention problems, poor cognition, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and even depression.

Another study conducted by Common Sense Media found that teenagers who spend more than six hours a day with screens scored significantly lower in tests than those who spend less time with screens. Yet another study by the University of California found that excessive screen use is the primary cause of decreased academic performance in high school.

Social media is one of the most significant contributors to excessive screen use. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and TikTok have become integral to the daily lives of many students.

However, such platforms can easily become time-sinks that distract students from their studies. The constant notifications, messages, and updates lead to constant interruptions, which can derail concentration and focus. Studies have shown that students who use social media in excess have lower GPAs than those who control their social media use.

The Effect Of Screen Time On Sleep

Another big issue associated with excessive screen time is poor sleep quality. Studies have shown that the bright blue light emitted by screens suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep.

This means that using screens before bedtime can make it difficult to fall asleep and ruin the quality of sleep. Poor sleep, in turn, leads to fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and decreased academic performance.

A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that the amount of electronic device use was inversely associated with sleep duration, leading to irregular sleep patterns and poorer academic outcomes.

What Can Parents And Educators Do?

It is essential for parents and educators to take active measures to reduce screen use among students.

While complete avoidance of screens is unrealistic, especially in today’s digital age, parents and educators can encourage students to limit their screen time and use screens more intentionally. Here are some ways parents and educators can help students:.

1. Set limits on screen time

Set specific limits on the amount of time students can spend on screens daily. Encourage them to engage in other activities such as sports, music, reading, or outdoor activities.

2. Eliminate or reduce screens in bedrooms

Removing screens from the student’s bedroom can go a long way in reducing screen time. Students should be discouraged from using screens in the hour leading up to bedtime to ensure adequate sleep.

3. Model positive screen behavior

Parents and educators should model positive screen behavior by limiting their own screen time. Students are more likely to emulate their parents and educators, creating a culture of responsible screen use.

4. Encourage other forms of communication

Students should be encouraged to have face-to-face conversations, write letters or emails to friends, and engage in phone calls instead of relying solely on social media for communication.

Conclusion

Screen use has become an essential aspect of modern life. However, excessive screen time can lead to poor academic outcomes, reduced sleep quality, and other associated problems.

Parents and educators should encourage students to limit their screen time and engage in intentional screen use to avoid the negative effects associated with excessive screen use.