Question

Reduced quantity and quality of interactions due to prolonged screen time:

(91 95) Read the passage given below and choose the best option from the ones given. Excessive screen media usage in children can have both positive and negative impacts on their development. Regarding cognitive development, screens have the potential to enhance education and learning. However, studies have shown that excessive screen time and media multitasking can negatively affect decision-making, sensori-motor development and academic outcomes. Early screen exposure has been associated with lower cognitive abilities and academic performance in later years. Language development is also affected by screen time, as it diminishes the quantity and quality of interactions between children and caregivers. Contextual factors such as co-viewing and appropriateness of content play a role in determining the impact on language development. Excessive screen usage can also lead problems in social-emotional development, including obesity, sleep disturbances, depression and anxiety. It can impair emotional comprehension, promote aggressive behaviour and hinder social and emotional competence. It has also been shown that excessive screen time and sleep deprivation are linked to obesity, which in turn can affect self-esteem and lead to social isolation and more screen time. Parents play a crucial role in managing and reducing screen time. Parental limitations and the absence of screens in bedrooms have been found to significantly reduce screen usage. Parents should also set an example by managing their own screen time. Overall, it is important for caregivers, educators and healthcare professionals to understand the potential risks of excessive screen usage and implement strategies to promote healthy development in children, including alternative activities that foster cognitive, linguistic and social- emotional skills.

• A. causes aggressive behaviour.
• B. diminishes language development.
• C. affects decision-making.
• D. causes sleep disturbances and depression.

Answer 1

Answer:

D. causes sleep disturbances and depression.

The statement "Reduced quantity and quality of interactions due to prolonged screen time causes sleep disturbances and depression" is true according to the passage.

Explanation:

• Reduced interactions: Prolonged screen time decreases the amount of face-to-face interaction between children and their caregivers, which negatively impacts emotional and social development.

• Sleep disturbances: Excessive screen usage, especially before bed, can interfere with sleep patterns and lead to sleep disturbances.

• Depression: The lack of meaningful social interactions, combined with the potential for negative behaviors associated with excessive screen time (e.g., isolation or anxiety), can contribute to feelings of depression in children.