As children spend more time on screens than ever, concerns about Still Face Syndrome have emerged. Defined by pediatrician Dr. Puneet Wadhwa as a condition where children show less engagement and responsiveness due to excessive screen time, the term originates from a psychological experiment conducted in the 1970s. The impact of digital devices on children’s social and emotional development is a growing concern.
Dr. Ahmed Ebied, a neurologist, believes excessive screen exposure can lead to delays in social and emotional skills in children, including reduced empathy and behavioural issues. Screens may impair brain functions related to attention and emotional regulation, resulting in withdrawal and a lack of emotional engagement. Parents should recognize symptoms such as avoiding eye contact and over-reliance on screens for stimulation as signs of Still Face Syndrome.
Dr. Wadhwa advised limiting screen time to two hours a day for older children to prevent disruption in social and emotional development. Children under two years old should have no screen time at all to focus on physical play and real-world interactions. Dr. Ebied recommended setting clear boundaries around screen time and prioritizing activities that promote interaction to ensure children’s overall well-being.
While some experts worry about the long-term consequences of excessive screen time, the research is still emerging, and direct conclusions are cautious. Dr. Wadhwa and Dr. Ebied agree on the importance of promoting balanced screen use and encouraging real-world interactions for children’s social and emotional well-being. The focus should be on finding a balance that allows for children’s brains to develop in an environment that supports emotional and social engagement.
