IMPACT OF THE USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES ON CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH: A PEDIATRIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The use of electronic devices has become an integral part of children's everyday lives, offering a wide range of opportunities and challenges for their mental health. This study presents an integrative review of the literature on the impact of the use of electronic devices on children's mental health, focusing on a pediatric perspective. The results highlight that although electronic devices offer significant benefits, such as access to information and communication, their excessive and inappropriate use can be associated with mental health problems, including anxiety, depression and sleep difficulties. Given these findings, it is crucial that parents, caregivers and healthcare professionals are aware of the potential negative impacts of electronic device use on children and take steps to promote a healthy balance between screen time and other activities. Furthermore, it is essential to educate children about the safe and responsible use of technology from an early age and promote a multidisciplinary approach to addressing challenges related to the use of electronic devices in children's mental health. These collaborative efforts are essential to creating a safe and healthy digital environment for children to grow and develop.