While TV isn't seen as dangerous in the ways it used to be seen a few decades ago, it can actually be harmful to kids.
New research shows that kids who watch too much TV have higher risks of becoming addicted when they're older.
Let's find out more.
Negative impact of TV
A recent study conducted by the University of Otago reveals that too much TV during childhood is linked to a higher risk of smoking tobacco and gambling when they're older.
Dr. Helena McAnally, one of the study's authors, suggests that excessive TV viewing in early life may serve as an early expression of addictive behaviors or contribute to the development of addictive disorders later.
These associations remained significant even after accounting for factors such as sex, socioeconomic status, and childhood self-control.
Safe screen time matters
Professor Bob Hancox emphasizes the need for guidance on digital health and wellbeing, speaking about the importance of campaigns promoting safe screen use.
He suggests that adhering to recommendations like the American Academy of Pediatrics' guideline of limiting the screen time to two hours for children and adolescents can serve as a helpful compromise.
