The Lifestyle Redesign Approach to Reducing Screen Time among Young People.

Abstract

Background. Excessive screen time is a real public health issue among young people given its negative consequences. It is important to rely on proven interventions to better support young people in adopting a healthy and meaningful lifestyle. The Lifestyle Redesign occupational therapy approach could help achieve this, but it has not yet been documented or explored with this population. Purpose. To demonstrate the relevance of adapting and testing the Lifestyle Redesign approach with young people who spend excessive amounts of time in front of screens, in the hopes of inspiring research or innovation projects in youth practice settings. Key issues. Many young people spend too much time using screens during their leisure activities. During adolescence, young people tend to increase their screen time during leisure activities, while also isolating themselves socially, struggling with boredom, and replacing physical activity with sedentary activities. Therefore, effective interventions would help to improve the life balance of these young people. Implications. A project to adapt and test the Lifestyle Redesign approach for young people would address this need. This project could include young people aged 10 to 12, their parents, and key partners. Drawing on other evidence-based practices related to commitment and screen time reduction would be beneficial to the intervention, which should also target, among other things, developing young people's repertoire of interests.