Researchers at Florida International University reported on Aug. 6 that parents experiencing higher levels of stress are more likely to rely on screens to calm or occupy their children and are less likely to enforce consistent screen-time limits. The findings, published in Family Relations, suggest that improving the quality of children's screen use may be as important as encouraging stricter rules.
The study surveyed 822 caregivers across the United States with children ages 4 to 8, examining how different types of parenting stress influence family media habits. According to the research, parents experiencing emotional distress were less likely to consistently enforce screen-time limits, while those who felt overwhelmed by their child's behavior were more likely to use screens during difficult moments.
"What stood out was the importance of caregivers' own stress in decisions about how screen media is used by their children," said Enid Moreira, lead author of the study and an FIU psychology doctoral student. "This is important because it points to the need to support caregivers as much as children."
Rather than focusing solely on reducing overall screen time, researchers recommend families choose meaningful and age-appropriate digital content for their children. "In the same way we think about nutrition, we can think about digital content as something that can be more or less healthy," Moreira said.
The recommendations align with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which encourages families not only to consider how much time children spend on screens but also whether media supports healthy development and fits into daily routines. Researchers also suggest using tools like the American Academy of Pediatrics' free Family Media Plan and keeping principles such as the "5 Cs of Media Use" in mind when creating technology guidelines at home.
Shayl Griffith, assistant professor in FIU's Department of Counseling, Recreation and School Psychology and senior author on the study, said, "When caregivers have the resources they need, they are better able to set consistent boundaries and engage with their children in ways that promote healthy development." For additional support, FIU's Center for Children and Families offers mental health services for families both in person and via telehealth.
