Children
The Smartphone-Not So 'Smart' for Teenagers' Health
By Borka Balas R, Melit LE, Balint DS and 4 others.
Abstract
Background
Smartphones have become indispensable tools for communication, entertainment, and information access among children and adolescents. Excessive smartphone use may interfere with daily activities and contribute to problematic smartphone use. This study aimed to investigate age-related differences in smartphone use patterns and their impact on health among children and adolescents.
Methods
A cross-sectional, online questionnaire-based study was conducted between March and May 2021 among 415 smartphone users aged 7-18 years. Participants were divided into two age groups (group 1: 7-12 and group 2: 13-18 years). Sociodemographic characteristics, smartphone use patterns, lifestyle factors, and health-related outcomes were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed in R version 4.3.3.