The ADHD Parenting Podcast 4. A Screen Debate: Is Screen Use An Addictive Behavior?
Mar 13, 2024
Hosts dive into the heated debate about screen use among children with ADHD, comparing it to addiction. They discuss how excessive screen time can influence brain development and executive functioning. The impact on social skills is critiqued, revealing that gaming may hinder essential communication abilities. Strategies for parents on managing screen time are provided, emphasizing varied experiences over screens to foster healthier development. Concern over the anxiety linked to screen dependency is also examined, offering practical advice for promoting balanced habits.
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Dopamine Deficit in ADHD Brains
- ADHD brains produce much less dopamine, making it hard to feel rewarded by non-preferred tasks.
- This dopamine deficit explains difficulties initiating and completing challenging activities.
Screen Addiction Devastates Kids
- Ryan Wexelblatt shared stories of kids whose lives get destroyed by screens if parents are too scared to limit use.
- These kids can become unemployable and live isolated in basements due to untreated screen addiction.
Screen Time Limits Differ For ADHD
- Screen time recommendations mostly apply to neurotypical kids, not those with ADHD.
- ADHD kids experience more severe negative effects and addiction potential from screens.
