Gaming vs Social Media: Which Affects Children's Attention More?

New scientific data suggests that social media use affects children's attention more than video games. A study in Sweden, which followed over 8,000 children aged 10-14, showed that systematic use of social networks is associated with an increase in inattention.

Researchers recorded children's digital habits in three categories: video games, video/television viewing, and social media use (TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, X, Messenger, Facebook). Only the use of social networks was associated with a gradual increase in inattention.

Constant notifications and unpredictable stimuli on social media are considered a possible explanation. Gaming, on the other hand, has a beginning and an end and requires continuous focus. Researchers emphasize that an average increase of one hour of daily social media use could lead to an increase in ADHD diagnoses by approximately 30%.

Australia has already set a minimum age of 16 for the use of social networks from 2025.