Review article
https://doi.org/10.21857/y54jofvrxm
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCREEN TIME ON DIGITAL DEVICES AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING - LITERATURE REVIEW
MAJA KUĆAR
SANJA ŠIMLEŠA
Abstract
It is becoming increasingly evident that there is a growing body of research
examining the interaction between children and technology. Possible consequences
of extensive screen time on children's cognitive, emotional, and other functions
are currently being investigated. The aim of this paper is to provide an
overview of the existing literature that problematizes exposure to screens and technology
(primarily smartphones) in the context of cognitive, more precisely, executive
functions. Executive functions refer to the most complex actions performed
by the cognitive system, such as planning, decision-making, and inhibition. Numerous
studies have successfully linked screen time and the executive functions of
children and adults. Many authors reported a negative impact of screen time on
executive functions. However, a significant number of authors reported the absence
of a significant impact, some even positive effects. Screen time, or even the
mere presence of a smartphone, can be viewed in the context of immediate and
long-term impacts on executive function. The methodological approach as well as
the theoretical implications of the research findings vary according to the selected
constructs and research focus. There are many limitations of the existing research
that are often pointed out in the literature, and this review paper summarizes those
limitations. Currently, operationalizing and measuring screen time is the biggest
challenge. The paper proposes guidelines for future research in this area.
Keywords
screen time; smartphone use; executive functioning; digital devices; child development; cognitive development.
Hrčak ID:
289583
URI
Publication date:
28.12.2022.
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