THE USAGE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS EFFECT ON ADOLESCENT SLEEP PATTERNS: AN EVIDENCE BASED REVIEW

Abstract

Electronic use before bedtime causes sleep disturbances in adolescents, and has also been shown to increase physiological, emotional or mental arousal. This evidence-based review aimed to explore the usage of technology among adolescents in bed and its negative impact on health. Methods: Pubmed / Medline and google scholar data bases were searched by the author to identify studies published from 2008 – 2021 covering adolescents using media at bedtime using key search terms such as insufficient sleep in adolescents, abnormal sleep patterns and unhealthy sleep habits. Results: The findings from the related articles show that the usage of technology among adolescents significantly affects the sleep quality and quantity. Insufficient sleep in adolescents has been linked to negative physiological consequences, including an increased risk of obesity, metabolic dysfunction, psychological and behavioral consequences such as an increased risk of anxiety, depression, mood disturbances, suicidal ideation, drug and alcohol use.