Everyday Health: Does watching too much television or playing video games cause ADHD symptoms?
Stephanie Sarkis (stephaniesarkis.com): ADHD is a genetic and biological disorder and is really an issue with motivation, not attention. Symptoms of ADHD can include inattention and hyperfocusing. That is why a child seems to be "inside" the TV or video game. When you need your child's attention, instead of asking him or her repeatedly to turn off the TV, just go over and shut it off.
Robert F. De Maria, DC, NHD (druglessdoctor.com)
Author of Dr. Bob’s Series, including Guide to Stop ADHD in 18 Days
A study from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that toddlers who watch videos may develop ADHD later in life. Children need to be outside playing, and not always in organized sports, but learning social skills with a pick-up game of kick ball or baseball or going fishing or riding a bike. Activity promotes life. Inactivity sabotages and stagnates optimal function of all cells in the body.
Lara Honos-Webb, PhD (visionarysoul.com): Research has shown a correlation between the amount of time spent watching TV and a diagnosis of ADHD. It is unlikely that TV watching causes ADHD, but it does cause many problems, including passivity, negative cognitive affects, and decreased sensitivity to violence. Parents should limit TV for these reasons. The correlation may reflect the fact that because ADHD kids are more difficult to manage, parents let them watch more TV or play more video games.
Rhonda Pawlan, MS (coachmerhonda.com): Absolutely not! Perhaps some people think there's a connection because when a child with ADHD is watching TV or playing video games, he or she will hyperfocus and have difficulty stopping to do more important things, such as homework.
Linda Aber (lindaaber.com): Neither of these causes ADHD, yet it's imperative that a child not become a couch potato or video potato. A lack of exercise is bad for the brain, and self-isolation causes social discord. Parents need to set strict time limits for computer and TV use. Children acquire skills such as reciprocity, turn taking, empathy, compromising, and negotiating from peer socialization. They need to acquire a "we" rather than a "me" mentality.