Table 1

Themes identified from the analysis of parent interviews and potential implications for screen-viewing behaviour change interventions

Theme	Implication for screen-viewing behaviour change interventions
Screen viewing seen as a reward and screen-viewing removal a punishment	Need to change perception of screen viewing in the home Develop strategies to downplay importance of screen viewing Appeal to parents’ interests/values in reducing screen viewing such as enhancing quality family time or balancing time on high-tech vs low-tech activities
Setting screen-viewing limits in relation to daily events	Simple strategies include No screen viewing before school No screen viewing during meals No screen viewing until after key tasks such as homework Provide timers to encourage children to self-monitor Use digital recording devices to prioritise viewing options
Context-specific limit setting	Identify when screen viewing is occurring Identify in advance when and how screen-viewing rules will be adapted/relaxed Identify how to accommodate screen viewing on ‘non-normal’ days Set screen-viewing rules as a family
Offering screen-viewing alternatives	Have preset list of ‘go to activities’ Stage non-screen-viewing activities to pique interest
Consistency between parents	Engage both parents in rule making and enforcement Ensure consistency when one or two parents are at home Work collaboratively for consistency for shared custody
Negotiation and compromise	Engage children in screen-viewing rule-setting process
Child policing/self-regulation	Build child skills to self-monitor screen viewing Praise child engagement in alternative behaviours