Study in Kerala reveals that 89.1% children are using phones with varying amounts of screen time
The results showed that children whose mothers had only a high school education had 100% screen-time exposure, while those whose mothers had Plus Two had 89%, diploma and degree holders had 91%, and children of mothers with postgraduate qualifications had 80% screen-time exposure.
Kollam: A study conducted by a group of doctors in Kerala raises serious concerns over the excessive usage of mobile phones by children below the age of 12. It has come to light that despite repeated warnings about the harmful effects of using mobile phones to feed or pacify children, the practice remains widespread and rampant.
The study revealed that 89.1% of children were using phones with varying amounts of screen time, while those who did not feature on the list were mainly kids whose parents did not own a smartphone.
The results showed that children whose mothers had only a high school education had 100% screen-time exposure, while those whose mothers had Plus Two had 89%, diploma and degree holders had 91%, and children of mothers with postgraduate qualifications had 80% screen-time exposure.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children under 18 months should have zero screen time, while those up to five years old should not exceed 30 minutes of screen exposure under parental guidance.
The study focused on children attending immunisation clinics at 18 months, taking into account their parents’ social and educational backgrounds.
The study found that 69% of parents used screens to feed their children, while approximately 50% were influenced by the behaviour of siblings.
Families below the poverty line generally reported lower screen usage, largely due to the absence of smartphones.
From March 2023 to July 2025, it has been found that nearly 2200 children had sought treatment at digital de-addiction centres across Kerala. A study among high-school students noted that 87.7% had high screen time (more than 2 hours daily), with mobile phones being the primary gadget.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, aggression, and in extreme cases, suicidal tendencies have been linked to digital addiction.
The data was collated by Dr Ranjitha under the supervision of Dr Jeena of the Department of Community Medicine, Parippally Medical College.