ADHD Focus: Screen Media and Brain DevelopmentADHD Focus: Screen Media and Brain Development
ADHD Focus
Does “screen time” on Smartphones, laptops, tablets etc affect my child’s brain? If so, how? Is she losing anything, or not developing some skills because she’s on YouTube and Netflix and Facetime so often? How much screen time is OK, and at what age?...
30:53•28 Nov 2016
Screen Time and Your Child's Brain: Insights from Dr. Mary Burke
“The problem in the situation you mentioned is if the kid's only way of distracting themselves is with a screen. So to me that's very serious in terms of developmental losses.”
Ever wondered how all that screen time is affecting your child's brain? Dr. Mary Burke, a psychiatrist from San Francisco, dives into this pressing issue in this episode of ADHD Focus. She unpacks the science behind screen media and its impact on brain development, especially in children. Dr. Burke explains how excessive screen time can interfere with emotional regulation and imagination, emphasizing the need for moderation.
She highlights critical development windows from birth to five years old and during adolescence when the brain is most receptive to learning new skills. One key takeaway? The importance of face-to-face interactions for reading emotions and developing social skills. Dr. Burke also discusses the risks of unresponsive environments where children are left to their devices while parents or caregivers are engrossed in their screens.
She offers practical tips for parents struggling to balance screen time, suggesting alternative activities that can replace digital distractions. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's screen habits or just curious about the effects of technology on young minds, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice.

Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.
Related Episodes
Similar episodes from other shows in the catalogue.
