The effect of the digital world on sleep: Problematic media use and sleep disturbances in school age children

Abstract

Aim: This study examines the relation between problematic media use and sleep disturbances in school age children. Method: The descriptive study was conducted between January and June 2024, with participation from 326 parents of children who visited the pediatric outpatient clinics of a university hospital. Data were obtained through the Introductory Information Form, Parent Form of Screen Addiction Scale in Children (Problematic Media Use Scale), and the Sleep Disturbance Scale in Children. Results: Findings indicated that mothers reported significantly higher scores for both sleep disturbances and problematic media use compared to fathers (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed based on income, parental employment, family structure, or educational level. However, children residing in urban areas had higher media use scores than those in rural areas (p < 0.001). A weak but positive correlation was identified between sleep disturbances and media use (r = 0.384, p < 0.001). Problematic media use was associated with an 81.6% increase in abnormal sleep status (OR = 1.816, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The results suggest that regulating children’s media use may help mitigate sleep disturbances. Nurses have an important role in supporting children’s healthy development by educating families on sleep disturbances and problematic media use, promoting healthy sleep habits, managing screen time, and providing multidisciplinary support when necessary.