Screen time impacts boys and girls differently

LONDON: Screen time affects boys and girls differently, a new study suggests that boys who play video games regularly are less likely to develop depressive symptoms whereas girls who stay active on social media platforms may experience an increased risk of depressive symptoms.

The findings indicate that boys, who played video games at age of 11 had 24 per cent fewer depressive symptoms three years later, whereas girls who used social media most on days at age 11 had 13 per cent more depressive symptoms three years later. The team said that the effect of reduced depressive symptoms was only significant among boys with low physical activity levels.

They suggest that less active boys could derive more enjoyment and social interaction from video games.