Digital Devices and their Effects on Child Development in Kenya: Mental Health, Social Behaviour and Cognitive Development

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21320373

Olumbe Roseline¹ and Eric B Niyitunga² (School of Applied Human Sciences, Institute of Child Development, Daystar University, Kenya¹ and Institute of Policy and Development Studies, Daystar University, Kenya²)

Digital technologies or devices like laptops, televisions, phones, artificial intelligence, robots and Computers have both constructive and destructive impacts on the lives, health and behaviour of the children. This study assessed the threats posed by digital technologies on child development in Kenya, with a specific focus on mental health, social behaviour and cognitive development. The study relied on qualitative research methodology with a narrative design. Secondary data was collected from the existing literature published in the public domain. The data was collected through a desk-based review approach, and was analysed through a document analysis technique. It was found that excessive and unsupervised use of digital devices in Kenya contributes to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. The study found that excessive and uncontrolled exposure of children to digital devices influences the rise in antisocial behaviour, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content, all of which hinder healthy social and emotional development. Moreover, cognitive impairments linked to attention deficits and executive dysfunction were identified, especially among children exposed to prolonged screen time. The study’s findings also revealed a critical gap in policy awareness and parental supervision, exacerbating these risks to children in both urban and rural settings. Despite the known benefits of digital devices in education and communication, their unregulated use among children has potential developmental implications. This study recommends a regulatory supervisory framework and policies for parents to limit children’s possession of digital devices and screen time, promote digital literacy, and encourage parental guidance.