Smartphone addiction and victimization predicts sleep problems and depression among children

Abstract

Background: In this study we examined the phenomena of smartphone addiction, online harassment, and school bullying/victimization to predict the prospective influence these could have on the onset and persistence of sleep problems and depression among children.

Methods: Responses from 2155 fifth-grade children recruited from 30 primary schools in Taipei were assessed, and a follow-up was performed in the 6th grade. Self-administered questionnaires were collected for each year.

Findings: Children who reported smartphone addictions, online harassment, and school bullying/victimization coupled with an increase in those factors were more likely to experience the onset and persistence of sleep problems. In addition, children who reported smartphone addiction, online harassment, school bullying/victimization, and poor sleep quality were more likely to experience the onset and persistence of depression.

Implications: School nurses or pediatric nurses should be able to assess children's Internet use and risks to understand potential influences on sleep quality and mental status and provide recommendations for children, parents and schools.

Keywords: Addiction; Bullying; Depression; Sleep; Smartphone.