In today’s digital age, mobile phones, tablets, and computers have become an integral part of our lives, including the lives of our children. However, recent reports suggest that excessive screen time may be negatively impacting children’s mental health, leading to what some experts are calling “virtual autism” and contributing to various forms of internet and digital addiction. As the prevalence of electronic gadgets continues to rise, it is essential for parents to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them.

Virtual Autism: A Growing Concern

Virtual autism refers to a set of symptoms commonly observed in children between the ages of four and five who spend excessive amounts of time on mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. While these children may not have autism, they exhibit behaviors and difficulties similar to those on the autism spectrum, which can be exacerbated by technology addiction. Dr. Rajni Farmania, a pediatrician at Delhi’s BLK Max Hospital, explains, “We refer to this condition as virtual autism because it manifests as autism-like symptoms in children, even though they do not have autism. Children between the ages of one to three are particularly susceptible to this phenomenon. In today’s world, as soon as children begin to walk, they are exposed to screens, which can lead to this condition.”

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time and Technology Addiction

Excessive screen time and technology addiction can have detrimental effects on a child’s development, leading to various forms of internet addiction and digital addiction. Dr. Farmania notes, “One of the negative consequences is impaired speech development. Children become engrossed in gadgets, which can hinder their ability to communicate effectively. Their behavior can also be affected, with many children becoming more irritable and sometimes even aggressive. Some parents resort to giving their children gadgets at night, disrupting their sleep patterns, which can further exacerbate technology addiction.”

Protecting Children from Internet and Mobile Addiction

To protect children from the potential harm of excessive screen time and technology addiction, experts recommend implementing certain strategies. Dr. Farmania advises, “Children under the age of two should have zero exposure to mobile phones and gadgets to prevent internet addiction disorder. Parents should keep these devices out of their reach. While children aged two to five can be allowed limited screen time, it is crucial to ensure that it does not become a habit, leading to smartphone addiction and internet addiction disorder. Parents should actively engage with their children during screen time to minimize its impact.”

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem of technology addiction as children have spent more time indoors and online, leading to internet gaming disorder and other forms of digital addiction. Dr. Farmania suggests that parents should encourage outdoor activities and limit screen time even more during these times. “Balancing screen time with physical activity is essential,” she emphasizes.

Setting an Example: Parental Responsibility in Combating Internet and Mobile Addiction Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children’s behavior and preventing technology addiction. It is essential for parents to lead by example and establish healthy screen usage habits for themselves to combat internet addiction disorder. Dr. Farmania recommends that parents adhere to “phone etiquette” and create tech-free zones at home to encourage family interactions without electronic distractions.

The rise in mobile phone and gadget usage among children is raising concerns about their mental health and development, fueling various forms of internet and digital addiction, including internet addiction disorder and smartphone addiction. Excessive screen time has been associated with virtual autism, a condition that mimics autism-like symptoms, and contributes to technology addiction. To safeguard children’s well-being and prevent internet and mobile addiction, parents should limit screen exposure, encourage physical activities, and model responsible screen usage themselves. By taking proactive measures, parents can help ensure that their children’s mental and emotional development remains healthy and balanced in our digital age.