Effects Of Screen Time On Health Outcomes Among University Students

Abstract

Background: The deep integration of digital technologies has led to increased screen exposure among young adults. This research aims to analyze the relationship between prolonged screen use, associated displacement of restorative habits, and subsequent escalation of comprehensive health risks among university students. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was carried out with 212 Indian university students aged 20–24. Participants completed a structured questionnaire to provide information on daily screen usage and self-reported health symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, sleep disturbances, and stress. The Inferred Health Risk Level (IHRL) was used as a combined measure to assess overall health risk, and the study framework was guided by the Vicious Cycle of Digital Dependence (VCDD) model to examine the effects of prolonged screen exposure. Results: Descriptive analysis confirmed severe risk exposure, with 78.3% of students averaging six or more hours of daily screen time. Symptom prevalence was high, including eye irritation (74.5%) and neck/back pain (73.1%). The IHRL categorized 32.5% of participants as High Risk. A key finding supporting the VCDD was that the displacement of regular screen breaks was significantly associated with heightened self-reported stress, with mean scores increasing from 3.46/5 for frequent breakers to 4.51/5 for those rarely taking breaks (p<0.001). Conclusion: This study revealed a critical association between poor digital hygiene habits, high screen time, and elevated composite health risk. These findings support the VCDD framework, underscoring the necessity of 
targeted interventions focusing on behavioral modifications (like mandated breaks) to disrupt the cycle of digital dependence.