Impact of COVID-19 on Screen Time and Results in Adolescent Cognitive Behavior

Summary

This project examines the effects of increased screen time on adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift to online learning led to a significant rise in screen time, with average usage increasing from 2.67 to 4.38 hours per day. This extended exposure has been linked to adverse cognitive and mental health outcomes, including premature brain aging, anxiety, depression, and reduced attention spans. The study highlights the development of Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) in some adolescents, which further exacerbates these issues by disrupting neural connections and brain function. Research indicates that excessive screen time can impede the brain's ability to form and maintain healthy neural pathways, leading to long-term cognitive impairments. The study also found structural abnormalities in the brains of adolescents diagnosed with IAD, including decreased functional connectivity and premature aging of emotional centers like the amygdala and hippocampus. The project underscores the need for further research into the treatment and prevention of these effects, particularly in neurodiverse populations, and suggests that addressing screen time and its impacts on adolescent development is crucial for mitigating the long-term consequences of the pandemic.

Video Presentation

Impact Statement

My project is on Screen time usage (STU) as a factor in adolescent’s lives that has increased significantly over the past few years, partially attributed to COVID-19’s influence. Through research into this topic, we discovered that for some adolescents, the development of Internet Addiction Disorder has exacerbated other forms of mental health and decreased functional brain connectivity. However, scientists are looking into different forms of therapy to mitigate the harm of high STU post-COVID-19. Elio Academy helped us uncover this knowledge through an education format that alternated between background knowledge, project assistance, and open discussion. The combinations of these formats helped students grasp new tools for understanding science and becoming better researchers.

Report White Paper

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_By: Riziki Chabeda_

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Elio Academy.

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