Research on Early Childhood Tablet Use and Anger Outbursts

A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that increased tablet use at age 3.5 years was associated with higher levels of anger and frustration by age 4.5 years. Moreover, those who displayed more anger at age 4.5 were likely to use tablets more frequently by age 5.5 years.

These findings suggest a cyclical pattern where early tablet use may negatively affect a child’s emotional regulation — the ability to manage one’s emotional states as they arise — which leads to more frequent tablet use.

The study does not say that tablets are the only cause of tantrums. However, it does suggest that too much tablet use might make tantrums more frequent and intense by affecting how children learn to manage their emotions. While tantrums are a normal part of growing up, they should be managed with parental support rather than using tablets as a quick fix.

Understanding the Research

Fitzpatrick and colleagues conducted a prospective, community-based research project with the following participants: 315 parents of preschool-aged children from Nova Scotia, Canada, with children at ages 3.5, 4.5, and 5.5 years. The researchers analyzed the collected data between October 5, 2023, and December 15, 2023.

The study wanted to determine how using tablets affects angry and frustrated children between the ages of 3.5 and 5.5 years. It also looked at whether using tablets more causes more anger and frustration, or if being angrier and more frustrated leads to more tablet use.

These were the findings:

• A 1-SD (standard deviation) increase in tablet use at age 3.5 years (about 1.15 hours per day) was associated with a 22% increase in anger and frustration at age 4.5 years.
• If a child showed more anger and frustration at age 4.5 years, this was linked to a 22% increase in their tablet use by the time they were 5.5 years old.

Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers

Children learn to manage their emotions best through face-to-face interactions, particularly with their parents. Excessive screen time can reduce these important interactions.

Not only that, but screens often offer instant rewards through games, videos, and social media, which can make it harder for kids to wait and handle their emotions.

Based on the study, parents and caregivers can consider these approaches:

• Use screens purposefully. Decide how much screen time is appropriate and stick to it. When they use tablets and other devices, it should be done primarily for educational purposes (to promote their learning).
• Make face-to-face interaction a priority. This is a great way for children and teens to handle stress. You can start by setting aside regular times for family activities — such as game nights involving jigsaw puzzles or charades — to promote communication and bonding.
• Designate no-screen zones. In our Screen Time Tips For Families handout, I share some guidelines on designating screen-free zones like the dining table. Other areas include bedrooms (to improve rest) and study areas (to increase focus, unless the device is being used for educational purposes).

The researchers also wrote, “Since parents play a key role in helping their children manage emotions, they should be encouraged to reduce their own screen time when they're around their kids.” Thus, for older kids and parents, learning how to self-regulate their screen time use is beneficial.

Related Resource: Healthy Tech Habits For Managing Stress

To learn more about building emotional regulation in children, we recommend reading this article and exploring our Feelings Worksheets.