Keywords
Qualitative methods
Smartphone
Screen time
How to Cite
Abstract
Background and aim. Today we live in a world surrounded by technology. Many children do not comply with the recommendations of paediatric guidelines on the use of electronic devices and the age at which they start acquiring their first smartphone is very early. This study describes the opinions and perceptions of a group of healthcare professionals on the use of smartphones during pre-adolescence.
Methods. A qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with six health professionals (four paediatricians, one psychologist and one psychiatrist) specialized in child health in a first-level hospital (Spain). All interviews were transcribed literally (in May 2023), anonymized and strategically analyzed using a deductive-inductive approach.
Results. The professionals interviewed stated that society is digitalized and that especially mobile phones can have both beneficial and harmful effects on children’s health. The professionals declared that more and more children are entering the consultation room with a mobile device and that the age of the first device should be around 12 years old, although it depends on the maturity of the child. According to gender, the professionals explain that the use of social networks is higher in girls and video games in boys. There is unanimity among professionals in the creation of a web platform to help families manage their first mobile phone during pre-adolescence.
Conclusions. The pattern and time of screen device use continue to be shaped by the advancement of technology. Families, educators, and policymakers must partner to establish healthy guidelines for promoting the use of display devices together.
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