Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and cognitive function in children and adolescents: a scoping review of dose-response relationships, screen time interactions, and public health implications
Abstract
Background: Physical inactivity among children and adolescents has reached critical levels worldwide, with approximately 81% of school-aged youth failing to meet the World Health Organization recommendation of at least 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. At the same time, screen-based sedentary behaviors have increased substantially, raising concerns about their combined impact on brain development, cognitive processes, and behavioral regulation. Although extensive research exists, evidence regarding dose-response relationships, neurobiological mechanisms, and the moderating role of screen-related behaviors remains fragmented.
Objectives: This scoping review aimed to systematically map the evidence linking physical activity and sedentary behavior with cognitive outcomes in children and adolescents, examine dose-response patterns, synthesize underlying neurobiological mechanisms (including brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neuroplasticity), and evaluate the moderating influence of screen time and smartphone-related behaviors.
Methods: The review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Six electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL) were searched for studies published between January 2000 and March 2026. Eligibility criteria were defined using the Population-Concept-Context framework. Two independent reviewers conducted screening, achieving strong inter-rater…
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