Combined screen use and its impact on neurodevelopment: an integrative systematic review
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Abstract
Introduction: Child neurodevelopment is a stage of great importance and highly sensitive to changes induced by environmental factors such as prolonged exposure to screens, which can influence executive functions, emotions, behavior, and intelligence. The objective of this research is to critically analyze the scientific evidence published between 2020 and 2026 on the impact of combined screen use on neurodevelopment in the pediatric population through an integrative systematic review under PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
Methods: An integrative systematic review was developed in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 statement. The literature search was conducted between January 1, 2026, and January 28, 2026, in the following scientific databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Redalyc, and Google Scholar. Clinical trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews were included.
Results: A total of 27 studies were included. The evidence showed a consistent association between prolonged exposure and behavioral problems, particularly externalizing symptoms. A moderate association with alterations in executive functions and a possible relationship with symptoms compatible with ADHD were identified. Prolonged passive use showed a greater association with adverse outcomes than supervised interactive use.
Conclusions: Accept or reject the hypothesis. Overall, the results indicate that the impact of combined screen use on child neurodevelopment is modest and highly dependent on the context in which the child or adolescent is exposed.
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