Mobile Device Dependency and Its Association with Eye Disorders and Mood Changes in Children: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Background: The increasing use of mobile devices among children has raised concerns about their impact on physical and mental health, particularly regarding eye disorders, mood changes, and academic performance. Objective: This study investigated the association between mobile device dependency, screen time, and their effects on eye health, mood disturbances, and academic performance in children aged 6-9 years. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to August 2024 in Dhaka, targeting parents of 260 children from four kindergarten schools. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing mobile device usage patterns, eye-related complaints (eye strain, dryness, vision problems), mood changes (irritability, anxiety, mood swings), and academic performance. Mobile device dependency was measured using validated scales, while parents reported eye disorders and mood changes and, where possible, confirmed by medical check-ups. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the association between screen time, dependency, eye disorders, mood changes, and school performance. Results: Mobile device dependency was observed in 59.6% of children, with 36.5% spending 2-3 hours on devices daily. Eye disorders were prevalent in 57.7% of the children, with eye strain being the most common complaint (30.8%). Mood changes were reported in 75% of the children, with irritability (32.7%) and mood swings (28.8%) being the most frequent issues. Mobile device dependency was significantly associated with both eye problems (p=0.022) and mood changes (p=0.005). Additionally, dependent children had poorer academic performance compared to their non-dependent peers (p=0.012). Conclusion: Mobile device dependency in children is significantly linked to eye disorders, mood disturbances, and lower academic performance. Strategies to regulate screen time and promote healthier device usage are crucial to mitigating these adverse effects.