Romanian parents face rising screen addiction and sports costs

A study conducted by D&D Research for Vodafone highlights growing concerns among Romanian parents regarding the impact of screen time on children. While parents recognize technology as a potential educational resource, they express significant anxiety over sedentary lifestyles, uncontrolled online interactions, and physical isolation.

The research indicates that the rising cost of living and inflation are preventing many families from investing in extracurricular activities. Parents noted that sports participation has become a luxury, as equipment, club fees, and logistics are increasingly unaffordable, leading to a perceived loss of athletic talent and institutional support.

Sociologist Dan Petre, director of D&D Research, suggests that sports could serve as a vital countermeasure to screen dependency. He emphasizes that engaging in sports helps children develop mental resilience and the ability to handle failure—traits that are increasingly necessary in a complex, modern world and are often found in high-performing professionals.