Relationship between Gadget Use and Emotional Development of Preschool Children

Abstract

Unwise use of gadgets can interfere with children's emotional development and productivity. This study aimed to determine the relationship between gadget use and the emotional development of preschool children at Al-Fatah Ciruas Kindergarten. This study used a descriptive correlation method with a cross-sectional approach using a questionnaire. In this study amounted to 82 respondents with sampling techniques using total sampling techniques and Chi-Square statistical tests. The results showed that most respondents were categorized as frequent in using gadgets as many as 39 respondents (47.6%), most preschoolers' emotional development was not good, and as many as 43 respondents (52.4%). Statistical test results obtained p value = 0.000, at 0.05 (p < α). These results indicate a significant relationship between gadget use and emotional development in preschool children. This study provides input and information for schools to be able to hold parenting classes and collaborate with psychologists to equip parents in educating, accompanying, and caring for children in the era of increasingly widespread gadget use.