TV's Effects on Kids May Not Include ADHD

While exposure to television and other media increases obesity, drug use, and more in children, the link to ADHD is unconfirmed.

In a review of nearly 30 years of research on the ways television, movies, and music effect children, the National Institutes of Health and Yale University found several negative health effects, but did not find a noteworthy increase in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The researchers reviewed 173 studies dating back to 1980, and found that 80 percent of the studies showed a connection between a negative negative health outcome and media hours or content. In their study, they rated as above average evidence to support the link between media exposure and drug use, alcohol use and low academic achievement. Evidence was weaker for the association with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, though the researchers say they would like to see more research before ruling out the connection.

According to the report, the average child spends nearly 45 hours a week with television, movies, magazines, music, the Internet, cellphones and video games. By comparison, children spend 17 hours a week with their parents on average and 30 hours a week in school.

Read more about the results of the review.