Sweden Launches Pioneering Investigation into Adults' Screen Time Impact on Children's Health

The Swedish government has commissioned the Public Health Agency (Folkhälsomyndigheten, FHM) to conduct a groundbreaking investigation into how adults' screen time affects children's health. This is the first official inquiry focusing on adult screen usage and its potential ripple effects on children, aiming to provide recommendations by June 1, 2026.

Social Minister Jakob Forssmed (KD) emphasized that growing research signals that excessive screen use by adults can lead to negative outcomes in children. These include disruptions in children's play, interruptions during language learning, and challenges in parent-child attachment. Forssmed highlighted that such disruptions may hinder children's language development and contribute to increased outwardly aggressive behavior in children who feel emotionally distanced from their parents.

The investigation will compile existing knowledge and disseminate findings to key stakeholders such as parental support groups, preschools, and the broader public. Unlike prior guidelines focused on limiting children's screen time with clear time caps, Forssmed indicated that this initiative would focus on raising adults’ awareness and suggesting strategies for managing technology use thoughtfully, rather than imposing guilt on parents.

A notable point in Forssmed's comments is the acknowledgment that many adults are aware of their excessive mobile phone use — with about half admitting they use their devices more than they would like. The inquiry’s goal is to encourage reflection and foster healthier screen habits among adults to improve children's developmental environments.

This initiative underscores Sweden's commitment to addressing modern challenges posed by digital media in family life and child development. Folkhälsomyndigheten's eventual recommendations are expected to influence public health policies and parental guidance moving forward, marking an important step in safeguarding children's wellbeing in an increasingly digital world.