Screen time battles happen on the regular. But new research says we might be focusing on the wrong thing altogether. According to the experts, it’s not how much time our kids spend on devices, it’s how attached they are to them that really matters.

A new study published in JAMA followed over 4,200 kids starting around age 10 and tracked their screen habits and mental health over four years. And the findings were eye-opening. Kids who showed signs of screen addiction, whether through video games, social media, or mobile phone use, were more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

“The problem wasn’t just screen time itself,” Dr. Amy Todey, a psychologist based in Atlanta, said in a recent interview with Parents.com. She continued saying, “Rather, kids’ emotional reactions and feelings of dependence—feeling unable to stop, needing more to feel good, or becoming irritable without it—were more correlated with addiction.”

Translation? If your child melts down every time the tablet gets taken away or can’t seem to enjoy themselves offline, it’s time for a deeper conversation.

Psychiatrist Dr. Zishan Khan, who was not involved in the study, emphasized the importance of understanding the function of screen use. “Those who described feeling addicted to their devices were at a significantly higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. That distinction is critical.”

And while the American Academy of Pediatrics has long advised strict limits on screen time for little ones, experts now say it’s just as important to tune into the quality of time kids are spending online and how it’s making them feel.

Dr. Ioana Pal, a clinical psychologist at Stramski Children’s Development Center, warns that prolonged use can still increase risk.

“Much like other types of addiction, screen time is the drug and children who chase the thrill or escape that screen time offers end up experiencing mental health problems like anxiety, depression, obsessions, poor anger management, and suicidal ideation.”

How can parents spot screen/technology addiction? Well, according to the experts, here are a few signs that your child may be addicted. Take a look at their list below.

• Spending a lot of time thinking about or planning the use of technology
• Feeling an urge to use the technology more and more
• Using technology to forget about problems
• Trying to cut back on using the technology without success
• Becoming restless or troubled when the technology is not accessible
• Using technology so much that it has a negative impact on school or work

So what can parents do to help to prevent screen time addiction? Well, according to the experts, parents can add these tips to their toolboxes. 

• Talk about it
• Learn about interests ahead of time
• Set boundaries
• Focus on offline alternatives
• Involve your community
• Treat screen addiction as a mental health concern

It’s not just about screen time, it’s about screen attachment. And a parent’s job isn’t just to set boundaries but to stay curious, present, and connected always.