Many parents are unsure of how much screen time is appropriate for their children and new guidelines are needed to advise them, psychologists have claimed.

According to a new paper by the British Psychological Society (BPS), a lot of the current evidence that is used to explain the negative effects of screen use in young people is not based on robust enough science.

"Digital literacy is considered a highly important skill for children. However, many parents and carers are still unsure of what amount and type of screen use is appropriate and necessary for their children. Stories reported in the media often sensationalise research findings and present them out of context," commented the paper's co-author, Dr Gemma Taylor, of the University of Salford.

The paper noted that the evidence used to advise parents on screen time is often weak and it becomes dated quickly.

"It fails to capture the complex and nuanced ways digital media is used. Families would benefit from balanced and sensible guidance on how to minimise risk and harmful behaviour, while encouraging positive uses of digital media," commented co-author, Dr Adam Galpin.

The paper called for better research in this area. It also made a number of recommendations to parents and carers, including:
-Screen time before bedtime should be minimised
-Children should be encouraged to engage in a variety of activities away from screens
-Parents should discuss different aspects of digital media with their children and encourage positive online behaviour
-Parents should spend time online with their young children to get the most out of educational content.

"Without adequate research, we have seen often inconsistent advice being put forward that has done little to help parents. Instead it has left many confused on the effects of screen time on the mental health of their children.

"We need to work alongside young people to learn what works for them in positively navigating digital media. We also need to enable parents to model positive behaviour themselves. But we should also be wary about coming to over-simplistic conclusions which do little to help," commented Isabella Goldie, director of the UK Mental Health Foundation.

The paper, Changing Behaviour: Children, Adolescents and Screen Use, was jointly launched by the BPS and the Mental Health Foundation.