Impact of excessive screen use on early childhood cognitive development.

  • Lorena Cecilia Hernández Cotero Universidad Panamericana
  • Luciana Macías Lemus Universidad Panamericana
  • Isabel Lorente Esquivel Universidad Panamericana
  • Alejandro de los Reyes Moren Universidad Panamericana
Keywords: screen use, early childhood, cognitive development, executive functions

Abstract

This article analyzes, through a qualitative narrative review of recent scientific literature, the impact of excessive screen use on children's cognitive and socio-emotional development, with a particular focus on early childhood (0–6 years). It examines the effects on cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, language, and executive functions, as well as associated socio-emotional outcomes, including emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, low frustration tolerance, and reduced social interaction. The findings reveal consistent patterns across literature, persistent research gaps, and the need to promote active adult mediation as a protective factor for comprehensive child development.

Published
2026-09-01