The Triad of Screen Time, Sleep Disruption, and Child Mental Health: A Framework for Nursing Interventions

Health Sciences

The increasing prevalence of screen-based technologies in children's daily lives has raised concerns about their effects on health and development. Emerging evidence links excessive screen time with disrupted sleep patterns and negative mental health outcomes, including anxiety, depression, and behavioural issues. This triad—screen time, sleep disruption, and mental health—presents a significant challenge for paediatric healthcare providers, particularly nurses who play a central role in health education and early intervention. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the interconnected impacts of screen time and sleep disruption on children's mental health and to propose a comprehensive framework for nursing interventions that address these intertwined factors. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a systematic literature review and focus group discussions with paediatric nurses and caregivers. Quantitative data from recent epidemiological studies were analysed to identify patterns, while qualitative insights informed the development of practical intervention strategies. Results: Findings confirm a strong association between prolonged screen exposure and delayed sleep onset, reduced sleep duration, and increased psychological distress in children aged 6–12. Nurses reported limited guidelines for addressing these issues but expressed a willingness to engage in proactive education and behavioural coaching for families.

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