Problematic Smartphone Use Linked to Negative Health and Academic Outcomes
Problematic smartphone use, often referred to as phone addiction, is characterized by difficulty controlling usage and interference with daily life. While a high screen-time total alone does not define addiction, the pattern of use, its motivations, and its consequences are critical factors. Research indicates associations between problematic smartphone use and poorer sleep, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and lower academic achievement. For instance, a 2019 systematic review of studies involving children and young people found that problematic use was linked to adverse mental health and sleep outcomes. Additionally, a 2024 review of 29 studies showed a small association between problematic smartphone use and reduced academic performance. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) highlights that digital features like autoplay and endless scrolling are designed to maximize engagement, potentially competing with other activities and making it harder to disengage. The AAP also advises that...
