BlackScreens in the News

Sumudu Mallawaarachchi talks about early childhood screen use at 7 and 9 News.
"More time children under five spend on devices the greater the likelihood of behavioural and sleep problems."
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Sharon Horwood talks about problematic smartphone use at 7 News.
"Problematic smartphone can be defined as a form of psychological or behavioral dependence on smartphones and digital media overuse."

Sharon Horwood talks about personality type and problematic smartphone use at 9 News.
"People with more neuroticism were more likely to engage in problematic use of their smartphone."
"They can set limits to see how much time they are able to access their phone or even gain some insight into how much time they are spending on their phone each day".
Media Releases
Kids and smartphones: a warning for parents about harmful impacts
Young children who spend large amounts of time on mobile screens are more likely to have problems sleeping and managing their emotions and behaviour, a new study has confirmed.
World-first study shows link between phone use and lower wellbeing
A world-first Deakin study has confirmed what many have wondered for some time: problematic smartphone use is associated with lower wellbeing.
Neuroticism blamed for smartphone addiction: Deakin study
A third of young Australian smartphone users have reported feeling anxious if unable to regularly check their phones, according to a newly published Deakin University study.
Media Articles
Herald Sun 2021
Tablets, phones worse for toddlers than TV.
Too much time on phones and tablets poses a greater risk to toddlers’ health than TV — and tantrums can be a sign of worrying behavioural changes.
Daylesford students lock phones in Yondr pouches for a day
“Apps can be super addictive and they’re built that way. Kids and teens are still developing control,” Dr Horwood said. “There is also the snowball effect of the fear of missing out. No-one wants to be the first one to stop replying or to go to bed first.”
Herald Sun 2018
The iPhone in Australia turns 10, but should we be celebrating?
The iPhone in Australia turned 10 this week, but there’s a growing problem with Steve Jobs’ most famous creation.