The study included 1,000 children ages 10 to 11. In the psychological assessment, children were asked how much time they spent a day in front of a computer screen or television. Responses ranged from zero to five hours. The questionnaire included 20 questions in 5 categories:
• Emotional difficulties
• Behavioral problems
• Hyperactivity or inattention
• Problems with friends
• Problems with groups of children the same age
More-sedentary children who spent time reading or doing homework had better results in terms of psychological issues in general.
Dr. Angie Page, director of the study said, “Watching TV or playing video games for more than two hours a day showed to be associated with greater psychological distress, regardless of their amount of physical activity.”
The University of Otago, in New Zealand, conducted a similar study, which was published in the journal Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. This study was based on multidisciplinary health and development and the study of juvenile lifestyles.
Both studies found that high exposure to television and the computer was related to problems in forming relationships. “This is important because having good relationships with parents and friends is important for a smooth transition from adolescence to adulthood,” said Dr. Rose Richards, lead author of the study.
“Viewing is not all bad, and a few hours of TV or computer use can compliment physical activity, but the limit of two hours is a good guide for parents,” Dr. Page said.
