Association between Information and Communication Technology Usage and the Quality of Sleep among School-Aged Children during a School Week

Sandra Ononogbu,Lea Saarni,Clas-Håkan Nygård,Marjut Wallenius,Raija-Leena Punamäki,Harri Lindholm

doi:10.1155/2014/315808

Abstract

Objective. To determine the association between intensity of information and communication technology (ICT) usage and quality of sleep in school-aged children during a school week. Methods. In all 61 subjects, 10–14 years of age, a quasiexperimental laboratory study where criterions for inclusion were absence of prior medical condition and duration of ICT use. A portable device (Holter monitor) was used to measure heart rate variability (HRV) over a 24-hour period, while activity diary was used to record in 15-minute intervals ICT use and sleep and wake up time. Low and high ICT user groups were formed according to their intensity of ICT use. Statistical analysis was done with two independent samples tests and factorial ANCOVA. Results. The higher ICT users showed a lower sleep time standard deviation of normal to normal interval (SDNN) measures in comparison to the low ICT users. Conclusion. The intensive ICT use was associated with poorer quality of sleep indicated by physiological measures among children and adolescents. Knowing the crucial role of healthy sleep in this age, the results are reason for concern.

Highlights

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) such as computer use, internet surfing, and video game playing enhances certain academic skills [1]
Among the high ICT user group, 52% belonged to the older age group (13-14 years)
heart rate variability (HRV) sleep period rose slower in high ICT users in both age groups compared to low ICT users (Figures 1 and 2)

Summary

Introduction

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) such as computer use, internet surfing, and video game playing enhances certain academic skills [1]. The increase of intense ICT usage among adolescents [2] is associated with adverse effects such as poor psychosocial health status [3]. A reduction in average sleep duration due to delayed bedtime, early waking up, sleep disruption by nightmares, and sleep walking are related to the use of ICT during the night time [4]. The compromise of the restorative potential of sleep by a reduction in its quantity and quality is found to undermine the daytime functioning of adolescents, manifested as irritability, day time sleepiness, and inability to concentrate or assimilate during academic activities [5]. Long-term adverse health effects, like poor sleep, are related to depression [6]. The probability of developing anxiety or depression is much higher among adolescents with poor sleep [6].

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion