New Study: Screen Time Guidelines Updated for Teens
Screen time rules for teenagers have long been a moving target. A major new study has given parents and experts something more concrete to work with. Here’s what changed and what it means for your family.
What the New Guidelines Say
Instead of a single number for everyone, the updated guidelines focus on quality and context. For teens, the emphasis is less on “how many hours” and more on what they’re doing and when. Social media and passive scrolling are treated differently from homework, creative projects, or video calls with friends.
Why Context Matters More Than a Number
Two hours of gaming with friends can be social and engaging. Two hours of doom-scrolling Instagram may leave a teen feeling worse. The new approach recognizes that not all screen time is equal. Experts suggest parents pay attention to how their teen feels before and after screen use, not just how long they were on.
Sleep Comes First
One area where the guidelines are strict: sleep. Screens in the bedroom, especially in the hour before bed, are linked to poorer sleep and worse mood. The recommendation is to keep phones and devices out of the bedroom at night, or at least use night mode and do-not-disturb settings.
Social Media and Mental Health
The study adds weight to concerns about social media and teen mental health. Heavy use—especially of platforms built around likes, comparisons, and infinite scroll—is associated with higher anxiety and lower self-esteem in some teens. The guidelines suggest limits on social media rather than blanket limits on all screen use.
When to Step In
Watch for signs that screen time is harming your teen: falling grades, withdrawal from family or friends, irritability when devices are taken away, or trouble sleeping. These are reasons to have a conversation and possibly set clearer boundaries. The goal isn’t control for its own sake, but protecting their wellbeing.
Practical Steps for Parents
Talk with your teen before setting rules. Explain your concerns and listen to theirs. Agree on reasonable limits together—teens are more likely to follow rules they helped create. Use built-in tools like screen time tracking and app limits, but don’t rely on them alone. Regular check-ins matter more than surveillance.
Model the behavior you want. If you’re on your phone during dinner, it’s harder to ask your teen to put theirs away. Consider screen-free zones or times for the whole family.
The Bottom Line
Screen time isn’t inherently good or bad. The updated guidelines encourage a more nuanced view: pay attention to what teens are doing, prioritize sleep, and stay alert to signs of harm. With that in mind, families can find a balance that works for them.