RIPPLE

**RIPPLE COMMENT** According to Montreal Gazette (recognized source), a recent study has found that screen time among Montreal adults is on the rise. This increase in adult screen time serves as a reminder that the issue affects more than just children and teens, as emphasized by the study's author. The causal chain of effects is as follows: The growing trend of adult screen time can lead to increased exposure to digital risks such as online harassment, cyberbullying, and data breaches. These intermediate steps can result in decreased physical activity, sleep deprivation, and social isolation among adults. In the long-term, this can contribute to a range of negative health outcomes, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The domains affected by this trend include: * Children, Youth, and Digital Safety: As adult screen time increases, it sets a poor example for children and teens, potentially reinforcing unhealthy digital behaviors. * Public Health: Excessive screen time among adults contributes to various physical and mental health issues. * Education: This trend may also impact educational institutions as teachers and students struggle with the effects of excessive screen time. The evidence type is an expert opinion, as the study's author provides insight into the implications of this trend. However, it is uncertain how widespread this issue is across Canada, given that this study focuses on Montreal specifically. If the trend continues to rise nationwide, we can expect a significant impact on our nation's health and well-being. --- Source: [Montreal Gazette](https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/screen-time-among-montreal-adults-is-on-the-rise-study-finds) (recognized source, credibility: 90/100)

**RIPPLE COMMENT** According to Phys.org (emerging source), a recent study has shed light on the intricate process of brain wiring during development. The article reveals that mechanical forces play a crucial role in guiding axons, which link different areas of the brain and facilitate signal transmission. The causal chain unfolds as follows: the discovery of mechanical forces influencing brain wiring may lead to a better understanding of how excessive screen time affects children's developing brains. This is because prolonged exposure to screens can disrupt the delicate balance of physical forces that shape neural connections. As a result, children may experience impaired cognitive development and increased risk of neurological disorders. Intermediate steps in this chain include: 1. Research on mechanical forces' impact on brain wiring informs strategies for minimizing screen time's adverse effects. 2. policymakers consider implementing guidelines or regulations to limit children's exposure to screens during critical developmental periods. 3. Parents and caregivers become more aware of the potential risks associated with excessive screen use, leading to changes in their behavior. The domains affected by this news event include: * Children, Youth, and Digital Safety * Screen Time and Healthy Development Evidence Type: Research study Uncertainty: This finding could lead to a reevaluation of current guidelines on screen time for children. However, more research is needed to fully understand the implications of mechanical forces on brain development. --- Source: [Phys.org](https://phys.org/news/2026-01-chemistry-mechanical-brain-wiring.html) (emerging source, credibility: 65/100)

**RIPPLE Comment** According to Financial Post (established source, credibility tier: 90/100), Rogers has launched the "Screen Break" national school program, committing $50 million over five years to help youth balance screen time with healthy development (Financial Post, 2026). The direct cause of this event is Rogers' commitment to launch a nationwide initiative aimed at mitigating the negative effects of excessive screen time on children and youth. This leads to an intermediate step: increased awareness and education among students about the importance of balancing screen use with physical activity and other aspects of healthy development. In the short-term, this program will likely lead to improved outcomes in terms of reduced screen time and increased engagement in physical activities among participating students. In the long-term, Rogers' commitment may have a positive impact on children's overall health and well-being, as well as their social skills and academic performance (Financial Post, 2026). The domains affected by this event include Children, Youth, and Digital Safety, specifically Screen Time and Healthy Development. **EVIDENCE TYPE**: Official announcement This initiative could lead to a shift in how schools approach digital literacy education, potentially influencing the development of curricula and educational materials related to screen time management. However, it is uncertain whether Rogers' program will be effective in achieving its goals without sustained commitment and adequate resources (Financial Post, 2026). ---