Latest on Tech: Childrens Brains Are Shaped by Screen Time.

[Hobie]

We dont quite understand these things yet, and what it is doing to our children, but the effects are out there....

"New Research: Childrens Brains Are Shaped by Their Time on Tech Devices

By TAYLOR & FRANCIS GROUP NOVEMBER 19, 2023

The evidence review, recently published in the peer-reviewed journal Early Education and Development, is an analysis of 33 studies that use neuroimaging technology to measure the impact of digital technology on the brains of children under the age of 12. In total, more than 30,000 participants are included. Based on the analysis of studies spanning 23 years that included over 30,000 children under the age of 12, specialists suggest that governments should provide increased support to parents.

The researchers, while acknowledging these effects, refrain from recommending specific limits on screen time due to the potential for confrontation. They suggest that policymakers should assist parents in managing their children?s digital engagement by endorsing programs that foster positive brain development.

In particular, the research finds screen time leads to -
changes in the pre-frontal cortex of the brain, which is the base of executive functions such as working memory and the ability to plan or to respond flexibly to situations.
It also finds impacts on the parietal lobe, which helps us to process touch, pressure, heat, cold, and pain;
the temporal lobe, which is important for memory, hearing, and language;
and the occipital lobe, which helps us to interpret visual information.

Digital Experiences and Cognitive Development
?It should be recognized by both educators and caregivers that children?s cognitive development may be influenced by their digital experiences,? says the study?s corresponding author, Chair Professor Hui Li, from the Faculty of Education and Human Development Faculty of Education and Human Development, at The Education University of Hong Kong. ?Limiting their screen time is an effective but confronting way, and more innovative, friendly, and practical strategies could be developed and implemented."

https://scitechdaily.com/new-research-childrens-brains-are-shaped-by-their-time-on-tech-devices/

[DaveW]

Of course.  Until sometime in the early 20s, everyone's brain is growing and in flux.  Moreso during early infancy, pre-puberty, and puberty. If the brain is in flux, then whatever that person is doing, watching, reading, etc. is going to be part of the shaping and neuron pathway wiring process.