Associations between sport and screen-entertainment with mental health problems in 5-year-old children

摘要: Few studies have examined the benefits of regular physical activity, and risks sedentary behaviour, in young children. This study investigated associations between participation sports screen-entertainment (as components activity behaviour), emotional behavioural problems this population. Cross-sectional analysis data from 13470 children (50.9% boys) participating nationally representative UK Millennium Cohort Study. Time spent clubs outside school, using screen-entertainment, was reported by child's mother at child age 5 years, when mental health also measured Strengths Difficulties Questionnaire. 45% did not participate sport 61% used for ≥ 2 hours per day. Children who participated had fewer total difficulties; emotional, conduct, hyperactivity-inattention peer relationship problems; more prosocial behaviours. These relationships were similar boys girls. Boys girls any duration, sport, problems, behaviours, than day sport. Longer durations usage are associated with However, our findings suggest an association better health. Further research based on longitudinal is required to examine causal pathways these determine potential role other forms preventing disorders.