Exploring the link between smartphone use and sleep quality: A systematic review

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate how smartphone use affected sleep quality. The review aimed to clarify the nature of this relationship and its implications for overall well-being and health.

Methodology: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2009 guidelines, literature published between 2014 and 2024 was reviewed across multiple databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Studies were selected based on their focus on smartphone use and its effects on sleep quality. The quality of the studies was assessed using the modified Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Findings: After screening 1760 records, 25 studies met PRISMA guidelines and were included in the review. The review consistently indicated a significant negative relationship between excessive smartphone use and sleep quality with younger populations and females being more susceptible. Standardized tools such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index reinforced these findings. However, limitations include reliance on self-reported data and the predominance of cross-sectional studies, which hinder establishing causality.

Conclusion and Policy Implications: Smartphone use harms sleep quality. Interventions should raise awareness of blue-light filters, digital detox, and evening device use limits. Educational campaigns for parents, educators, and healthcare providers can promote healthier smartphone habits, especially for adolescents and young adults.

Keywords

PRISMA / sleep quality / smartphone use / systematic review

References

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