A series of seven infographics presents the key findings of a survey conducted by the European Union on the impact of screen time and social media on the health and well-being of adolescents.
According to the findings, adolescents spend an average of around 4.5 hours per day in front of screens on weekdays and more than 6 hours per day at weekends. In addition, 9 out of 10 adolescents report experiencing at least one issue related to screen use.
The findings highlight the links between screen times and sleep difficulties, reduced concentration and emotional well-being. They also explore the impact of social comparison on social media, exposure to inappropriate content, and the important role parents can play in creating a safer digital environment.
For healthier use of technology, the following are recommended:
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Set clear limits on screen time and encourage regular breaks;
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Avoid using phones before bedtime;
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Talk openly with children about their online experiences and the content they encounter.
Information, open communication within the family and media literacy are important steps towards helping young people develop healthier habits and use technology in a more balanced and responsible way.
