If your children spend hours daily on social media, this habit could be putting their academic performance and intelligence at risk. This warning has emerged from the latest medical research conducted by the University of California, U.S.
According to the study, children under the age of 13 who regularly use social media show weaker performance in reading, memory, and vocabulary tests. Experts observed a clear link between frequent social media use and a decline in brain function.
While most previous studies focused on the psychological effects of social media, this new research examined its academic impact specifically how it affects school performance in children.
Researchers used data from a long-term study involving more than 6,000 children aged 9 to 13. The participants were divided into three groups based on their social media usage:
First group: Children who did not use social media at all.
Second group: Children who spent about one hour daily on social media.
Third group: Children who spent three or more hours daily on social media.
Throughout the study, researchers closely examined the children’s brain functions. The results surprised experts even those who used social media for just one hour a day showed a noticeable decline in academic performance.
According to the findings, the scores of these children dropped by 4 to 5 points, while those who stayed away from social media performed better.
The study noted that even short periods of social media use can negatively affect children’s cognitive abilities. Although a few points’ decline may seem minor, over time, it can significantly impact learning and thinking skills.
The research, published in the renowned medical journal JAMA, urged parents to strictly limit their children’s social media use to ensure their mental development and academic growth are not compromised.
