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The more teens use social-media networking sites, video games and streaming services, the higher their risk of developing symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), according to a new study published the the July 2018 Journal of the American Medication Association.
The study tracked over 2,500 public school teens over two years, monitoring their usage and symptoms, according to the Wall Street Journal article, and found links between frequency of use and ADHD. The study did not rule out other possible causes such as lack of sleep, family stress at home or a family history of ADHD. However it was the first longitudinal study to follow so many teens over a two-year period, that went straight to an issue that pits parents and teachers against the tech industry in the fight for children’s attention.
Technology Use Not the Only Danger
Use of technology could be one of several factors related to ADHD. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, research suggests that smoking and drug use during pregnancy, as well as lead exposure during childhood also increase the risk of developing ths disorder.
The new study is an important early step toward understanding the impact on the developing brain of media enabled by the internet, apps and mobile devices, Scientists believe more research is needed.
For the study, students answered questionnaires every six months about their media diet – including checking social media, browsing, online shopping, videos and video chatting – and frenqency of use. Participants also completed self-assessments of ADHD related symptoms.
If students reported experiencing six or more symptoms on the self-assessments, researchers considered them poisitive for ADHD symptoms. The study was led by Adam M. eventhal, Director of the University of Southern California’s Health, Emotion and Addiction Laboratory at USC’s Keck School of Medicine.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
Review our Knowledge Base or the links displayed on this page for similar and related topics.
See Also:
Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP)
Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT)
National Clearing House for Alcohol and Drug Information
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)