Screen Dependency Disorders (SDD): An Innovative Contest for Brain of Children

Abstract

Screen viewing now begins in infancy with new research finding that the predominance of screen viewing in children aged under two years ‘is high and looks to surge steadily across age groups’ [1]. Associations are emerging between screen dependency disorders such as Internet Addiction Disorder and specific neurogenetic polymorphisms; abnormal neural tissue and neural function. Although unusual neural structural and functional characteristics may be a precondition rather than a magnitude of addiction; there may also be a bidirectional relationship. As is the case with substance addictions; it is possible that intensive routine exposure to certain screen activities during grave stages of neural development may alter gene expression resulting in structural; synaptic and functional changes in the developing brain leading to SDS; particularly in children with predisposing neurogenetic profiles [1]. There may also be compound/secondary effects on neural development. Screen dependency disorders; even at subclinical levels; involve high levels of unrestricted screen time; inducing greater child deskbound behavior thereby reducing vital aerobic fitness; which plays an important role in the neurological health of children; particularly in brain structure and function. Child health policy must therefore adhere to the principle of precaution as a prudent approach to protecting child neurological integrity and well-being [2]. ‘Addiction’ is a term increasingly used to describe the growing number of children engaging in a variety of different screen activities in a dependent; problematic manner. The concept and diagnostic criteria derive from pathological gambling and substance-related addictions and are often based on the amount of time spent engaging in a screen activity; such as playing computer games; and the extent to which this compromises the individual’s overall functioning [2].