The relationship between the digital media devices use and emotional and behavioral problems in older preschool children

Despite the large number of review publications on the negative impact of the digital environment on the emotions and behavior of preschoolers, there is the lack of studies devoted to the assessment of associations of digital media devices (DMD) use with the emotional and behavioral characteristics of older preschool children. The aim of this work is to identify and analyze associations between various parameters of DMD use and emotional and behavioral characteristics in older preschoolers. Materials and methods. The characteristics of DMD use were studied in 126 children (the project "Study of neurobiological predictors of academic success in children", Priority 2030 Program) based on a questionnaire survey of parents (83 boys, 43 girls; 6.5 [6; 7] years). Emotional and behavioral problems were assessed using the Achenbach's form for parents of children aged 6-18 years (Child Behavior Checklist; n = 53). The children were also examined by a neuropsychologist blindly to the results of the questionnaire (n = 95). Results and discussion. Significant associations were revealed between a number of indicators of DMD use (long-term average daily time, negative reactions when refusing to use the gadget, etc.) and aggressive and delinquent behavior in children and the presence of externalization problems in general, as well as with a number of other emotional and behavioral problems. The obtained results indicate the need for further study of the problem in order to develop practical recommendations for parents and teachers, focused on the optimal combination of screen time and traditional forms of education and leisure.

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