Studies Shoot Down Tech’s Harmful Effects on Kids—So Now What?

t looks like grownups can disregard the fear-mongering about the ill effects of digital media on kids. A 2017 in found “little or no support for harmful links between digital screen use and young people’s psychological well-being.” Parents can police their kids’ smartphone use if they like, but they should know such restrictions aren’t evidence-based. As authors Andrew Przybylski and Netta Weinstein explain, “a critical cost-benefit analysis is needed to determine whether setting firm limits constitutes a judicious use of caregiver and professional resources.”