Use of mobile devices and psychosocial difficulties in children under 12 years of age: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

The growing use of mobile devices among children under the age of 12 underscores the need to investigate potential associated risks and to encourage appropriate usage habits. This meta-analysis aimed to examine the relationship between mobile device use and behavioral problems in children aged 3 to 12 years, as measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The literature search was conducted in three databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, and WOS), in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The study protocol was previously registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Eligibility criteria were established using the Population, Exposure, Comparator, and Outcomes (PECO) framework. Risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for the quality appraisal of non-randomized studies. A total of seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. The results indicated an incidence of 8.52% for emotional problems (95% CI [4.10, 17.71]); 8.00% for behavioral problems (95% CI [1.87, 34.21]); 10.23% for symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention (95% CI [2.73, 38.40]); 11.64% for peer relationship problems (95% CI [5.20, 26.08]; k = 4); and 0.20% for reduced prosocial behavior (95% CI [0.12, 0.32]) among children with higher mobile device usage. Children's greater use of mobile devices is associated with a higher prevalence of behavioral and emotional problems.