Jakarta, July 4 -- In its early stages, gadget addiction in children can show up as tantrums over device use, according to clinical and family psychologist Pritta Tyas, M.Psi.

"If a child throws a tantrum over a gadget, that may already indicate signs of addiction. Something needs to be addressed," Pritta said during a discussion in Jakarta on Thursday evening.

When a child becomes anxious after being separated from a device, that can also be one of the early symptoms of addiction. Other signs include losing interest in activities they previously enjoyed or struggling to think of alternatives to gadget use.

These symptoms may stem from a lack of physical activity and outdoor play, which limits children's imagination, hooking them to ga...