The use of electronic devices by young children leads to emotional dysregulation

Today’s world is inextricably linked to technology, and children are exposed to the influence of electronic devices from an early age. Smartphones, tablets, TVs and computers have become an integral part of family life, but do we realize that excessive use of these devices can lead to serious emotional problems in our youngest?

Sudden mood changes and increased impulsivity in children and electronics

We increasingly notice sudden mood changes, difficulties in controlling emotions and increased impulsivity in young children. This is often due to excessive time spent in front of electronic device screens. Scientific research confirms that excessive exposure to television, computer games or Internet browsing can lead to emotional dysregulation in children.

Electronic devices often provide children with intense visual and auditory stimuli that can overstimulate their brains. This, in turn, leads to difficulties regulating emotions because children do not learn to respond appropriately to their feelings. Sudden mood changes, outbursts of anger and difficulties in dealing with frustration become more and more visible.

Self-regulation of emotions in children – why is it important?

Emotional self-regulation is the ability to control and manage your feelings. This is a key element of a child’s healthy development. Children who can deal with emotions on their own have a greater chance of achieving success at school, in social relationships and in their future adult lives.

Lack of self-regulation of emotions can lead to many problems, such as learning difficulties, aggressive behavior towards other children, problems with concentration and low self-esteem. Therefore, it is important to develop children’s ability to control their emotions from an early age.

How to help a child tame strong emotions?

There are many ways to help your child develop emotional self-regulation:

• Limit screen time. Try to set specific limits on the daily use of electronic devices.
• Suggest alternative forms of entertainment, such as reading books, playing outdoors or creative art classes.
• Encourage your child to express and talk about his or her feelings. Give him space to express his emotions.
• Support your child in learning relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, to help them control their emotions.
• Be a good example. Control your own screen time and show your child that you can deal with your own emotions.

Your suggestions

If you have your own suggestions on how to help children manage strong emotions and avoid emotional dysregulation, please share them with us in the comments below. Together we can create an environment that supports the healthy emotional development of our youngest children.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the impact of technology on children’s development, we recommend that you read our other articles on this topic:

• “What computer games are suitable for children?”
• “The role of parents in the child’s digital world”
• “Digital education – how to combine science with technology?”

Let us remember that our responsibility as parents and guardians is to support the healthy emotional development of our children, and limiting the time spent in front of electronic screens may be a step in the right direction.