Effect of Screen Time Exposure on Eating Behaviour and Health Related Quality of Life

Screen media devices have become an integral to daily life, especially for preschool children due to emerging technologies, increased marketing , widespread familial and societal use , and easy access to or ownership for young children. Common screen activities include watching television, digital video discs and videos, playing video games, and using apps . However ,excessive screen time, non-educational screen content, unsupervised and early screen exposure can have numerous potential negative effects on children's health . Screen time can significantly affect quality of life in various ways, both positively and negatively. Regarding cognitive development, screens have the potential to enhance education and learning. However, studies have shown that excessive screen time can negatively affect executive functioning, sensorimotor development, and academic outcomes. Early screen exposure has been associated with lower cognitive abilities and academic performance in later years. Language development is also affected by screen time, as it diminishes the quantity and quality of interactions between children and caregivers. Excessive screen usage can also lead to problems in social-emotional development, including obesity, sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety. It can impair emotional comprehension, promote aggressive behavior, and hinder social and emotional competence .