Theoretical Framework

The researchers found a reliable theory, called displacement theory, that would justify the
inclusion of the study's variables and act as the theoretical basis for the study.

The concept of displacement originated with Sigmund Freud. At first, he perceived it as a

method of dream distortion, involving a change in focus from significant to incidental aspects or the
substitution of something with a mere illusion.

The displacement theory is commonly used to explain the connection between adolescent
screen use and mental health. According to the theory, time spent in front of screens takes the place of
other pursuits, like those that promote good health. Thus, excessive screen usage can harm teenage
mental health.

Achievements

Effects of sreen
time on the
Mental state academic Behavior
performance of
the students

Participation
in school
Such associations can be linked to a theory of displacement. This theory supported by many studies,
suggest that negative associations on academic performance arise due to screen time displacing time
spent engaging in educational rich activities such as schoolwork and reading (Garcia-Continente, Pérez-
Giménez, Espelt, Adell, 2013; Sharif & Sargent, 2006; Skvarc et al. 2021; Trinh et al. 2015; Watson et al.
2021). Similar to trends found in young children, adolescents engaging in more educational screen usage
has been positively associated with increased academic outcomes (Adelantado-Renau et a. 2019;
Sanders et al. 2019). However, as mentioned earlier, meeting the 2hour screen time guidelines does not
only benefit academic performance, but also mental health and wellbeing.