Study: Use of Electronic Devices May Hinder Kids’ Ability to Read Others’ Emotions

A psychological study conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles found that children may face declining social skills due to their increased use of digital media.

According to a UCLA press release, researchers found that sixth graders who went five days without any use of a smartphone whatsoever were significantly better at “reading human emotions” than sixth graders who were permitted to use their electronic devices as usual. “Many people are looking at the benefits of digital media in education,” said psychology professor Patricia Greenfield, “and not many are looking at the costs.”