Does social media cause ADHD in children?

The study found an association between social media use and increased inattention symptoms, suggesting it may contribute to ADHD diagnoses, but does not state it directly causes the disorder in all cases.

What did the Karolinska Institute study find about kids and screens?

The Karolinska Institute study linked social media use, not TV or video games, to increased inattention symptoms in children aged 10-14.

How much has ADHD increased in children?

The prevalence of ADHD among children in the US has risen from 9.5% in 2003-2007 to 11.3% in 2020-2022.

Home / Health / Social Media Linked to Rising ADHD Diagnoses

Social Media Linked to Rising ADHD Diagnoses

8 Dec

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Summary

Study links social media use to increased inattention in children.
Children spent 1.4 hours daily on social media, research shows.
ADHD diagnoses increased from 9.5% to 11.3% in recent years.

Social Media Linked to Rising ADHD Diagnoses

New research indicates that social media usage among children may be a contributing factor to the observed increase in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses. A study involving over 8,300 U.S. children found a correlation between time spent on social media and heightened inattention symptoms.

Researchers observed that children dedicated significant time to digital activities, with social media use showing a notable association with concentration difficulties. This connection is attributed to the constant notifications and messages inherent in social media, which can act as persistent mental distractions for young users.

The study, which monitored children from ages 10 to 14, noted a rise in ADHD prevalence from 9.5% to 11.3% in recent years. The findings suggest that while the effect may be small individually, population-level changes in social media habits could have significant consequences for children's cognitive development.