Why do parents expose their young children to durations of screen time in excess of official recommendations? A qualitative exploration of factors influencing parental decisions

Screen media are widespread in early childhood despite international recommendations against exposure before age two. This qualitative study explored why parents exceed these recommendations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 parents (90% women; 75% aged 31–40) of children under age three from low-income urban families in France. A thematic analysis, guided by the theory of planned behavior, explored attitudes, norms, perceived control, and intentions regarding children’s screen use. Parents described being aware of risks and guidelines, yet this awareness did not prevent overexposure. Instead, screen use appeared to reflect a complex interplay of structural constraints, social norms, emotional needs, and coping strategies. Although parents often reported intending to limit screen time, their reported practices were shaped by daily challenges such as fatigue, stress, limited support, and small living spaces. Parents portrayed screens as essential tools for calming children and managing routines. Screen use was described as normalized despite public health messages, and many parents faced contextual barriers such as limited access to outdoor spaces or childcare. Most parents were unaware of the benefits of shared viewing and mediation. These findings suggest that prevention strategies should move beyond prohibition and provide practical support adapted to parents’ everyday constraints.