ISSN: 2574-2701
Authors: Masani H, Singh A* and Narwaria M
Objectives: A study to assess the correlation between screen time exposure and nutritional status and compulsive eating behaviors. Background: Screen time is a sedentary activity that affects child’s physical and mental development. Eating behavior research focuses on the prevention and treatment of obesity and eating disorders. Restrained or emotional eating in children and adolescents suggests relationships with body weight or obesity. Childhood overweight and obesity can lead to many health-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, arthritis, and cancer. Method: The sample was composed of 100 subjects ranging from 5-12 years old. A growth chart from the IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) was used to record nutrition status. Kagan et al. Compulsive eating was examined with a questionnaire. Screen time was assessed by AAP (American academy of paediatrics) screen time by age guidelines. All data were analysed through probability value, correlation was done by Pearson’s correlation and chi-square test. Result: The result showed that out of 100, 14 % of participants had moderately used screens and 86% had excessive use of screens. 38% of participants had low- compulsive eating, 48% of participants had moderate compulsive eating and 14% of participants had high-compulsive eating. Conclusion: The correlation between screen time, compulsive eating, and junk food consumption showed that participants who had higher screen time had higher compulsive eating, lower physical activity, and more junk food consumption.
Keywords: Screen Time; Compulsive Eating, Junk Food; Physical Activity; Child Obesity; Screen Time Guidelines; Eating Habits; Child Health
