The Cost of Midnight Scrolling: Smartphone-Induced Bedtime Procrastination as a Predictor of Daytime Sleepiness and Life Satisfaction

Problematic smartphone use before bedtime has become a growing concern due to its adverse consequences on the daily functioning of university students.This study examined the level of smartphone-induced bedtime procrastination, its role in predicting daytime sleepiness and life satisfaction, and gender differences in smartphone-induced bedtime procrastination among undergraduate students in Malaysia.A total of 160 Malaysian undergraduate students completed Google Forms that included demographic information, the While-in-Bed Smartphone Use-Induced Sleep Procrastination Scale (WSPS), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS).Data from this quantitative study were analysed using SPSS, Version 26.The findings revealed that nearly half of the participants (43.75%) reported a high level of bedtime procrastination due to smartphone use.Smartphone-induced bedtime procrastination significantly predicted increased daytime sleepiness, but did not significantly predict life satisfaction.Furthermore, no significant gender differences were found in smartphone-induced bedtime procrastination.To reduce smartphone use before bedtime, digital health campaigns may be developed and implemented by university stakeholders.