Two teen boys are laughing and looking at a cell phone; a dad talks with his teen children on a couch.

Evidence-based teen video viewing guide

The American Psychological Association (APA) developed this evidence-based guide to help parents navigate the complex world of teen video viewing. Drawing on decades of psychological research, we examine how video content affects adolescent development, mental health, and well-being.


Rather than focusing solely on screen time limits, we emphasize understanding how different types of content affect teen development and building skills for thoughtful media consumption.


You’ll find research-based recommendations for:

  • Promoting healthy viewing habits and balanced screen time
  • Fostering productive conversations about video content
  • Helping your teen develop media literacy skills

A message from Arthur C. Evans, Jr.

Teens today spend hours watching video content across multiple platforms, raising concerns about effects on attention spans, learning abilities, and social development. While some content can benefit adolescent development, other types may pose risks. APA's CEO and Executive Vice President shares key findings and practical strategies for parents.

Strategies to help your teen thrive

Our recommendations come from rigorous analysis of hundreds of studies. As the digital landscape constantly evolves, core psychological principles about adolescent development provide a reliable foundation for safeguarding teens’ healthy engagement with video content.


With the right guidance, you can empower your teen to thrive as a thoughtful media consumer. The APA is here to serve as a trusted resource on this important journey.