The Effect of Mobile Device Usage on SDQ Scores for Children Aged 6–12 in Jordan

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of mobile device use on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scores of children aged 6–12 years in Jordan, and to examine the factors that led the children to experience such effects. Our goal was to provide useful recommendations on how and when to use such devices to minimize harm and maximize benefit.

Methods: An online, anonymous, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted between May and June 2022. It involved a self-administered web-based questionnaire completed by parents of children, using social media platforms for distribution. The inclusion criteria were residency in Jordan and being aged 6–12 years. A total of 829 responses were received from participants; with 553 responses analyzed.

Results: Children who used mobile devices for more than two hours daily had a higher risk of emotional symptoms (p=.002), behavior problems (p=.001), hyperactivity (p=.010), peer problems (p=.000) and prosocial problems (p=.015). Additionally, children who began using mobile devices at or before the age of two years, as well as those who used mobile devices before bedtime, were more likely to have abnormal scores (52.3% and 44.6%, respectively).

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated the negative effects of improper mobile devices use on children’s health and psychological development.  therefore, it is necessary to investigate these conditions and the extent of the resulting effects more broadly, in order to create a safer environment for the children’s growth.