Impacts of problematic smartphone use on children: Perspectives from main caregivers

Yejung Ko; Sihyun Park

doi:10.1016/j.apnu.2023.08.007

Impacts of problematic smartphone use on children: Perspectives from main caregivers

Arch Psychiatr Nurs. 2023 Oct:46:59-64. doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2023.08.007. Epub 2023 Aug 21.

Authors

Yejung Ko¹, Sihyun Park²

Affiliations

¹ College of Nursing and Health, Kongju National University, Gongju 32588, South Korea. Electronic address: yjko@kongju.ac.kr.
² Department of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, South Korea; Institute for Community Care and Health Equity, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, South Korea. Electronic address: sh8379@cau.ac.kr.

PMID: 37813505
DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2023.08.007

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the impact of problematic smartphone use (PSU) on children aged six years and younger, as perceived by their main caregivers.

Method: Overall, 15 mothers who identified that their children used smartphones excessively were recruited and interviewed. Data were analyzed using summative content analysis.

Findings: Participants reported various impacts of PSU that were categorized into developmental, behavioral, health, quality of life, and parent-child relational perspectives.

Practical implications: Efforts to prevent PSU in children are needed. Nurses' roles in the early assessment of PSU are essential.

Keywords: Children; Excessive internet use; Parent-child relations; Parenting; Smartphone use.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Behavior, Addictive*
Caregivers
Female
Humans
Mothers
Quality of Life
Smartphone*