Comparing the Effectiveness of Play Therapy and Digital Detox in Enhancing Emotional Regulation and Reducing Screen Addiction in Early Childhood

Abstract

In recent studies unnecessary increase in media use among children has raised fears about their emotional and cognitive problems. Screen addiction may cause a lot of physical and mental health issues like eye strain, neck and back pain, sleep patterns and psychological problems like social withdrawal, poor concentration and cognitive issues. It emphasized the central role of parental involvement and consistent reinforcement at home. Data was collected through pre- and post-intervention assessments using confirmed emotional regulation and screen addiction scales. The play therapy group contributed in sessions concerning representative play, storytelling, creative arts, and role-play, while the digital detox group followed a structured reduction in screen experience, supported by alternate assignation actions like outdoor play, mindfulness exercises, and parent-led dealings. The combination of these approaches, when supported by parental involvement, proved to be both effective and culturally adaptable in the Pakistani context. The study was conducted on a sample of 20 school-going children aged 4 to 8 years. Results exposed that both play therapy and digital detox interventions significantly improved children’s emotional and behavioral regulation. Play therapy techniques including art activities, clay mold, storytelling, and puzzle solving directed to a significant increase in post-intervention scores (M = 9.90), compared to the pre-intervention average (M = 4.90), with a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 3.93). Similarly, the digital detox group, which included strategies like screen-free zones, outdoor activities, and compact digital exposure, also showed clear improvement (Pre M = 4.85; Post M = 9.10; Cohen’s d = 3.85). Although both interventions were highly effective, play therapy demonstrated slightly greater efficacy in enhancing emotional awareness and inspiring screen-free behavior among children.

 Keywords: Play Therapy, Digital Detox, Emotional Regulation, Screen Addiction, Early Childhood, Behavioral Intervention, Screen Time Management