From hyperactivity to harmony: a primary care case report on screen-limiting success

Abdul Hadi, Azwanis and Yahaya, Siti Aisyah (2026) From hyperactivity to harmony: a primary care case report on screen-limiting success. Medical Journal of Malaysia Case Reports (MJM Case Reports), 5 (1). pp. 1-3. ISSN 2948-3859

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Abstract

Excessive screen use in children may be linked to inattention, hyperactivity, and emotional dysregulation, mimicking neurodevelopmental disorders. Early recognition and differentiation from neurobiological causes in primary care are essential for appropriate management. An 8year old boy presented with hyperactivity and inattention, using screens five hours daily on weekdays and twelve hours on weekends. Assessment showed high screen dependency score (48/60). The Vanderbilt ADHD scores were markedly elevated, with ten positive responses across both the inattentive and hyperactive symptom domains, and clear impairment in the performance domain, particularly in relationships with parents and siblings. These findings fulfil the DSM-5 criteria for a possible diagnosis of ADHD, despite normal developmental milestones and preserved speech and sensory functions. A three-month, parent-led intervention was subsequently introduced, incorporating Google Family Link and structured routine modifications. This method successfully reduced screen time to under two hours on weekends and eliminated it entirely on weekdays. Following the intervention, the screen dependency score fell markedly to 17/60. The Vanderbilt scores also normalised, with no positive responses to the previously affected domains. Performance ratings improved reflecting better behavioural regulation and attention. This case underscores the importance of assessing screen use and implementing parent-led strategies as effective interventions within the primary care setting.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	screen time, screen limit, child, hyperactive
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA790 Mental Health. Mental Illness Prevention
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Medicine > Department of Family Medicine (Effective: 1st January 2011) Kulliyyah of Medicine
Depositing User:	Dr Azwanis Abdul Hadi
Date Deposited:	26 Jun 2026 16:41
Last Modified:	26 Jun 2026 16:41
Queue Number:	2026-06-Q3795
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129535

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