Dysregulated Screen Exposure Is Associated With Severity of Language and Communication Impairments in Children With Developmental Disorders.

Abstract

Aim: While rising amounts of screen exposure for young children are reported, speech and language developmental disorders (DD) are also increasing. Vulnerable groups with combined risk factors are more affected, but less represented in the research. Our goal is to assess the amount and context of screen exposure in children referred for treatment and relate this to their language, cognitive and communication impairment.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of medical records (parent ratings, child observations, standardised tests) for a random sample of 3-8-year-old children assessed by a multidisciplinary team of child experts at a social paediatric centre. Information about screen exposure in the home environment (screen exposure index, SEI), diagnoses and expert ratings were derived from reports and documentation.

Results: Expert ratings yielded dysregulated screen exposure for 53% of the 73 children (mean age 4.7 years, SD 1.3, 82% male). Referred for suspected speech and language DD, 68% of the children were diagnosed with unspecific or mixed DD. Those with higher SEI ratings did not differ in IQ score, but received more unspecific or complex diagnoses and were rated as more severely impaired concerning language and communication.

Conclusion: Screen exposure should be considered in diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.