Date of Publication

2023

Project Team

Project Advisor: Carol Buck-Rolland, EdD, APRN, PNP

Abstract

PURPOSE: The advancement and development of technology over the last decade has resulted in a stark increase of screen time for adolescents. Research shows that adolescents today spend an average of 7.5 hours in front of various screens for entertainment each day in comparison to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended 2 hours. Studies have found that screen and media use has significant negative effects, resulting in adverse health outcomes in adolescents. This project aims to decrease screen time in adolescents aged 13-18 years using an evidence-based tool known as the AAP Family Media Plan (FMP).

METHODS: In this quality improvement project, the Family Media Plan was implemented at annual Well Child Checks for patients 13-18 at a rural pediatric primary care office. Those who were exposed to more than two hours of screen time per day were eligible to participate. Participants were asked to implement the FMP for 30 days. Data was collected using pre-intervention surveys and electronic post-intervention surveys.

RESULTS: Ten pre-intervention surveys were administered and completed. Of the 10 electronic post-intervention surveys distributed, 5 were completed and returned. The FMP was successful in reducing screen time for 80% of participants who completed the pre and post-intervention survey. There was an average of 41.2% reduction in screen time for survey participants.

CONCLUSION: The FMP is an effective tool that has the potential to decrease screen time in adolescents. A larger sample size is needed to confirm its efficacy and further evaluate its benefits.

Document Type

Project

Available for download on Thursday, May 01, 2025

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