Research
Daily Screen Time Keeps Climbing for US Teens
Average recreational screen use among American teenagers has grown steadily over the past decade, now exceeding seven hours a day outside of schoolwork for many in the 13-to-18 group. Researchers link the heaviest use to disrupted sleep onset and reduced physical activity, though the relationship runs in both directions. Time on short-form video platforms accounts for the largest single block, displacing both reading and in-person socializing.
by HealthVetted ResearchPublished: May 29, 2026Source: Common Sense Census; Pew Research Center teen surveys
7.2 hrs
Daily teen recreational screen time
Average recreational screen use among American teenagers has grown steadily over the past decade, now exceeding seven hours a day outside of schoolwork for many in the 13-to-18 group. Researchers link the heaviest use to disrupted sleep onset and reduced physical activity, though the relationship runs in both directions. Time on short-form video platforms accounts for the largest single block, displacing both reading and in-person socializing.