In today’s digital world, parents face increasing challenges when it comes to setting boundaries for their children. Screens have become an ever-present part of daily life, from entertainment to education, making it difficult to know how much is too much. As Catholics, we are called to nurture the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our children. A recent study sheds new light on the relationship between childhood screen habits and teenage mental health, offering parents another reason to approach technology with prudence and intentionality.
The Link Between Screen Time and Mental Health
“In case you needed another reason to hold off on buying your child a phone, research shows a troubling connection between childhood screen habits and teenage mental well-being,” according to a recent study published in JAMA Network Open. The eight-year study followed 187 Finnish children from ages 6-9 into their mid-teens, tracking their screen time, physical activity, sleep, and eating habits. Researchers found that “kids who racked up more screen time—especially on mobile devices—showed higher levels of stress and depressive symptoms as teenagers.”
The findings emphasize what Catholic parents have long understood: children thrive in environments that encourage balance, discipline, and moderation. Excessive screen use, particularly on mobile devices, may contribute to stress and emotional struggles in adolescence. “The data painted a clear picture: teenagers who had accumulated more total screen time and mobile device use throughout childhood showed significantly higher levels of stress and depressive symptoms.”
Faith, Family, and the Call to Moderation
The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that “parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children” (CCC 2223). This education extends beyond academics and into moral formation, including teaching children how to use technology wisely. While screens can provide educational benefits and social connections, their overuse may prevent young people from developing virtues like self-control, patience, and perseverance.
Saint John Paul II often spoke about the importance of the family as the primary place of formation. Catholic parents must consider how screen habits impact the spiritual and emotional health of their children. If excessive screen time leads to higher rates of stress and depression, it is worth examining how families can create a healthier, more balanced digital environment.
Physical Activity: A Key to Emotional Well-Being
The same study that found a connection between screen time and poor mental health also discovered that children who engaged in higher levels of physical activity had better mental health outcomes. “Teens who maintained higher activity levels during childhood, especially in supervised settings like sports or structured exercise programs, showed better mental health outcomes.” The Catholic understanding of the human person emphasizes the unity of body and soul. Engaging in physical activity strengthens not just the body but also mental and emotional resilience.
Saint John Bosco, who dedicated his life to working with youth, encouraged physical activity as a means of fostering discipline, community, and joy. In the modern age, when children are more drawn to screens than playgrounds, Catholic families may find inspiration in his approach. Encouraging outdoor play, sports, and family activities can be a practical way to counterbalance the effects of excessive screen time.
A Call to Action for Catholic Parents
“More screen time should mean more physical activity,” the study authors urge. While digital devices are becoming increasingly central to education and socialization, setting healthy boundaries remains essential. As Catholic parents, we are not just raising children; we are raising future saints. This means cultivating habits that promote their overall well-being, including their mental and emotional health.
To foster healthier digital habits:
- Set screen time limits, especially for mobile devices.
- Encourage structured physical activities, such as sports or family walks.
- Model good digital habits as parents, demonstrating moderation and intentionality.
- Prioritize faith-based activities that nurture the soul, such as family prayer, Mass attendance, and acts of service.
Conclusion: A Catholic Approach to Technology
While modern technology is not inherently bad, its influence on young minds must be carefully guided. The latest research provides “more concrete evidence about lifestyle factors that might help prevent psychological distress before it takes root.” As Catholic families, we have an opportunity to create a digital culture that prioritizes balance, self-discipline, and the dignity of the human person.
As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” By teaching our children to use technology wisely and encouraging healthy habits, we can help them grow into faithful, resilient, and joy-filled young men and women.
