Abstract

Over the past decade, the use of digital media has rapidly evolved among children, especially in the post-COVID-19 era. While television was the primary form of media exposure in earlier times, the proliferation of handheld devices, such as smartphones and tablets, has expanded the scope of digital media. Despite the beneficial role of digital media in education, early and excessive exposure to digital media can have deleterious effects. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and impact of digital media exposure among school-going children. Method: This was a school-based cross-sectional study conducted in three different schools in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh. The participants' media exposure was thoroughly evaluated through the use of a pre- many hours of their free time do you usually spend in front of the TV? This question has been broken into separate categories for weekdays and weekends. Similarly, to assess smartphone usage, participants were asked the question. The available responses for each question included none, approximately 0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, or 3 h or more. Total screen time was calculated by adding up the answers to all questions. Results: The study found that the average daily screen time was 3.52 hours, (3.52±1.43), 95% CI. In our study 482 children (76.5%) had co-viewing of media with their parents or primary caregiver either at all times or partly. Most of our children started viewing television and mobile phone within 1 year of their life, ie, 57% had started viewing television before first birthday and 55% of children had started viewing mobile phone before one year of age. Conclusion: The prevalence of digital media exposure among school-going children is alarmingly high. Parents and guardians should regularly monitor their children's digital media exposure to avoid unhealthy digital practices and prevent negative consequences

Description