Self-Control and Screen Time : Understanding Their Interplay in the Digital Age

This study examined the relationship between self-control and smartphone usage time among adolescents. A total of 400 participants aged 15–18 years were recruited using a random sampling method. Data were collected through a validated self-control scale and self-reported smartphone usage time. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that self-control significantly predicted smartphone usage duration, with a coefficient estimate of -0.0862 (SE = 0.0214, Z = -4.03, p < 0.001). The negative coefficient indicates that increased self-control reduces the likelihood of excessive smartphone use (>6 hours/day). Adolescents with higher self-control were less likely to engage in prolonged smartphone use, emphasizing the role of self-regulation in digital consumption. These findings highlight the need for interventions to enhance adolescent self-control.