Despite repeated warnings about the harmful effects of using mobile phones to feed or pacify children, a recent study has found that the practice remains widespread. The research was conducted by Dr Manoj Mony, District President of Kollam for the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP).

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 primarily children whose parents did not own smartphones. 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 supervision.

The study focused on children attending immunisation clinics at 18 months, taking into account their parents’ social and educational backgrounds. 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 education had 89%, diploma and degree holders had 91%, and children of mothers with postgraduate qualifications had 80% screen-time exposure. Household structure also played a role, with 78% of children in nuclear families and 91% in extended families exposed to screens.

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.

The data was collated by Dr Ranjitha under the supervision of Dr Jeena of the Department of Community Medicine, Parippally Medical College. The study report was submitted to Kollam District Medical Officer, Anu M.S.