The Effect of Digital Screen Exposure and Temperament on Sleep Problems in Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Rural Area in Turkey

Abstract

Objective:More and more children experience sleep problems, which are believed to be exacerbated by the Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and digital screen exposure. This descriptive and cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between sleep problems and digital screen exposure and temperament in children during the COVID-19 pandemic.Materials and Methods:The sample consisted of 122 parents of children aged 3-6 years. Data were collected using a descriptive characteristics questionnaire, the children’s sleep habits questionnaire, and the short temperament scale for children.Results:Most children have been watching more TV (77.9%) and spending more time on computers/tablets/smartphones (89.3%) since the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a relationship between screen time and sleep duration (<0.05), sleep anxiety (<0.05), daytime sleepiness (<0.05), and total sleep score (<0.05).Conclusion:There is also a relationship between sleep problems and digital screen exposure and temperament during the COVID-19 pandemic. Policymakers and educators should take measures to promote children’s health and education during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Keywords

• covid-19
• digital screen exposure
• preschooler
• sleep problems