ANALYSIS OF EXCESSIVE SCREEN USE AND ITS IMPACTS ON HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY WITH SCHOOL-BASED ADOLESCENTS
Abstract
Introduction: The immersion of adolescents in the digital universe is a prominent phenomenon in contemporary society, with an alarming increase in screen time. Scientific evidence demonstrates an association between excessive screen exposure and negative health outcomes, including mental disorders, impairments in sleep quality, and sedentary behavior. Objective: To analyze the profile of screen use and its association with mental health symptoms, sleep quality, and level of physical activity in adolescents from a school in the municipality of Patos, Paraíba. Method: This is a field study with a cross-sectional, analytical design and a quantitative approach, conducted with students aged 12 to 18 years. Data collection was carried out through a self-administered questionnaire, covering the sociodemographic profile and screen use, in addition to using validated instruments. Results: A total of 22 adolescents were evaluated, with a mean age of 16.0 years (SD = 1.29), predominantly male (54.5%), students in the 1st year of high school (54.5%), and with a family income of up to one minimum wage (40.9%). Discussion: The findings of the present study highlight a critical scenario regarding the digital habits of the adolescents investigated, with high exposure to screens, associated with a significant reduction in sleep duration and poorer mental health profile, especially among girls. Conclusion: Given the presented scenario, it becomes essential to plan future interventions that promote sleep hygiene and responsible digital education, requiring a collaborative approach that integrates the school environment and the family unit, establishing structured limits for use.
Author Biographies
Medical student at Centro Universitário de Patos.
Master’s degree holder, President of the Medical Residency Commission at Centro Universitário de Patos, Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. Professor of the Medicine course at UFCG – Cajazeiras, Paraíba, Brazil.
Master in Health Sciences, professor at Centro Universitário de Patos – UNIFIP.
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