What is the consequence of Problematic Digital Media Use?

The rapid rise of digital media use has been shown to worsen ADHD symptoms and the overall state of adolescents with ADHD. This phenomenon is called Problematic Digital Media Use (PDMU) which includes use of social media, video games, television shows, etc.

During COVID and the increased use of screen time/technology has significantly increased since the pandemic. A recent study showed children ages 8-16 who had ADHD with problematical digital media use were compared to those who did not have problematical digital media use. They compared both groups and the group with the high amount of digital media use depicted substantially worse ADHD symptoms:

  • ADHD Core Symptoms – ADHD adolescents with high digital media use had a much lower ability to focus and was distracted more easily.
  • Emotional Problems – ADHD adolescents with high digital media use had much higher rates of anxiety and depression disorders.
  • Executive Function (EF) – ADHD adolescents with high digital media use had worse EF, which includes a lack of self-control, self-regulation, and behavioral inhibition. This leads to difficulties in daily life management.
  • Parent-Child Relationships – ADHD adolescents with high digital media use had more problems such as confrontation and disobedience, which can cause strained relationships.
  • Learning Motivation – ADHD adolescents with high digital media use had a lower motivation to learn, higher stress levels, and learning problems compared to the ADHD group without problematic digital media use.
  • Physical Activity – ADHD adolescents with high digital media spend more time on social media and video games than doing physical activity. A decreased amount of physical activity may cause depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

There is a correlation between high digital technology use and ADHD and because of COVID, ADHD in adolescents only became worse as digital media became more used. It is important to reduce screen time on social media and video games to prevent this from happening. A systematic, tailored approach is recommended via the counseling process. If you would like more information regarding this strategy, please contact Dr. Steven Greco, board certified neuropsychologist.  

Shuai, L., He, S., Zheng, H. et al. Influences of digital media use on children and adolescents with ADHD during COVID-19 pandemic. Global Health 17, 48 (2021).