Screen Time and ADHD: A New Perspective
Episode Overview
Screen time isn't directly linked to ADHD; it's about brain wiring. Chaos from constant notifications disrupts focus more than screen duration. Structured screen sessions can help manage ADHD symptoms. Not all screen use is harmful; engagement is key. Parents should focus on healthy digital habits rather than banning screens.
ADHD doesn't come from too much dopamine. It comes from a system that doesn't process it right in the first place.
In this episode of TheKicksShrink Podcast, Dr. Sulman Aziz Mirza takes a closer look at the intriguing relationship between screen time and ADHD. As a triple board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mirza brings his expertise to the table, challenging common beliefs about dopamine and digital devices. He explores the idea that screen time might not be the villain it's often portrayed to be, and instead, it could be helping kids with ADHD manage their symptoms more effectively. Dr.
Mirza uses light-hearted anecdotes, like his own son's Fortnite obsession, to illustrate how what might seem like a screen addiction could actually be a form of self-medication for ADHD brains. The episode highlights research suggesting that screen time doesn't predict attention problems, contrary to popular belief. Instead, it's the chaos of constant notifications and task switching that poses a real threat to developing brains. Listeners are encouraged to rethink how they view screen time in their children's lives.
Rather than banning screens entirely, Dr. Mirza suggests focusing on screen patterns and creating structured screen sessions that allow for breaks and encourage engagement without chaos. With practical advice sprinkled throughout, this episode is both informative and entertaining, offering a fresh perspective on managing ADHD in the digital age. If you're curious about how screens might actually be helping your child's brain rather than hindering it, this episode is a must-listen.