Passive Behavioural Patterns and Mental Health Outcomes in Children: A Developmental Review

Authors

Aradhana Kaul Kathju Research Scholar, Suresh Gyan Vihar University (Humanities & Social Sciences - Psychology), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India – 302017
Jyoti Gaur Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Liberal Arts and Humanities, Meerut, U.P., India
Sandeep Saxena Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Humanities & Social Sciences, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

passive habits, Child Development, sedentary behaviour, digital exposure, developmental psychology

The rising prevalence of passive habits among children has become a

significant concern in developmental psychology, particularly in the context of increasing

digitization and post-pandemic lifestyle shift. Characterized by low cognitive, physical, and

social engagement, such behaviours, including excessive screen use and sedentary activity,

may disrupt normative developmental trajectories. The review synthesizes findings from 81

peer-reviewed studies (2000-2026) examining the impact of passive behavioural patterns on

children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. Results indicated that

persistent passivity is associated with reduced executive functioning, attentional difficulties,

impaired emotional regulations, and lower social competence, alongside adverse physical

health outcomes such as obesity and sleep disturbances. Contextual factors, including family

environment and digital exposure, further shape these effects. Importantly, passive behaviours

may function as early indicators of vulnerability to emotional and behavioural difficulties. The

review highlights the need for early identification and multi-level interventions to prevent the

progression of subclinical concerns into long-term psychological problems.