Sweden Investigates Adults' Screen Time Impact on Child Development
Sweden launches first study examining how adults' screen time influences children's health and development, focusing on awareness over restrictions.
- • Swedish government tasks Folkhälsomyndigheten to study adult screen usage effects on children.
- • Research links adult screen time to attachment, language development, and behavioral issues in children.
- • About half of adults feel they use mobile devices more than they want.
- • Guidelines for adults will focus on awareness rather than strict usage limits.
Key details
The Swedish government has commissioned Folkhälsomyndigheten (the Public Health Agency) to conduct a pioneering investigation into how adults' screen time affects children's health. This marks the first time adult screen usage is formally studied with a focus on its effects on children, including issues related to attachment, language development, and behavioral challenges. Social Minister Jakob Forssmed noted that research suggests excessive adult screen usage can disrupt children's play and language acquisition, potentially resulting in poorer attachment and increased behavioral problems.
About half of Swedish adults report feeling they spend more time on their mobile devices than desired, indicating widespread concern regarding screen habits. Folkhälsomyndigheten is tasked with compiling existing knowledge on this topic and sharing findings with the general public, parental support groups, preschools, and similar institutions.
While the agency previously issued recommendations placing specific time limits on screen use for children and adolescents, the guidelines for adults are expected to focus on raising awareness rather than setting strict limits. Forssmed emphasized that the initiative aims at understanding and managing technology use thoughtfully, avoiding blame on parents. The investigation will continue until June 1 of next year, aiming to better inform the public about balanced screen habits for adults to support children's healthy development.