Screen Time Addiction

Abstract

Navigating life without the Internet in recent times is nearly unimaginable. It makes tasks like information gathering, socialization, and financial transactions accessible right from the comfort of one's home. However, amongst the host of benefits it provides, there are many problematic and potentially damaging aspects as well. It is not uncommon to lose track of time on unproductive online activities and ignore real-world responsibilities and commitments. In its most severe form, this preoccupation with online activities is often called screen time addiction. The present chapter explores the risk factors that aid the development of screen time addiction. It looks at the impact that screen time addiction can have on academic life, interpersonal relationships, and mental health among children and teenagers since they are most likely to develop screen time addiction. It also recommends tackling screen time addiction through preventive and therapeutic interventions.