FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SMARTPHONE OVERDEPENDENCE IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN AND ITS EFFECT ON SOCIAL BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS

Smartphone use among preschool children is increasing. It can even be stated that the age of use has decreased until early childhood. Screen exposure in preschool children leads to various behavioral problems. This study aimed to reveal screen addiction in preschool children, to reveal the factors associated with screen addiction, and to determine the effects of problematic smartphone use on social behavior disorder. The study was prepared with a cross-sectional design. Parametric and nonparametric methods were used in the analysis, and regression analysis was performed. The problematic or social behavior disorder scale differs according to the variables of daily and weekly smartphone usage time of the child and mother's education level. Problematic smartphone use has an effect on social behavior disorder. Since it leads to social behavior disorder, it is recommended to limit the use of smartphones in preschool children, to produce alternatives for other activities, to provide parental education, and to develop strategies to strengthen children's self-regulation regarding smartphone use.