<![CDATA[The social and emotional development of preschool children is influenced by environmental stimulation, including increased use of gadgets. Globally, 5–25% of children aged 0-5 years experience developmental disorders, some of which are influenced by excessive digital exposure. Uncontrolled use of gadgets can trigger emotional behavioral problems such as irritability, loss of appetite for eating or drinking, difficulty focusing, lack of responsiveness, and withdrawal. This study aims to determine the relationship between gadget use and emotional behavior problems in children aged 4-6 years at TK Negeri 1 Sanden. The research uses quantitative methods with a cross sectional approach. The population was 93 children and the sample was 79 children selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data collection was carried out through gadget use questionnaires and children's emotional behavior problems questionnaires (KMPE). Data analysis used SPSS via the Spearman Rank test with a significance level of 0.05. The results showed variations in the intensity of gadget use in children, and statistical tests showed a significant relationship between gadget use and emotional behavior problems (p = 0.001; r = 0.850). The higher the intensity of gadget use, the greater the risk of developing emotional behavior problems in preschool children. It is hoped that this research can provide input for parents to always accompany their children when using gadgets and ensure that the content they access is age appropriate. Apart from that, parents need to direct their children to useful activities, such as active play, communicating, reading, or participating in social activities, so that children's social and emotional development remains optimally stimulated.]]>
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