Digital Devices Use and Sleep in Adolescents: An Umbrella Review

Maria Fiore (), Desiree Arena, Valentina Crisafi, Vittorio Grieco, Marco Palella, Chiara Timperanza, Antonio Conti, Giuseppe Cuffari and Margherita Ferrante
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Maria Fiore: Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Desiree Arena: Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Valentina Crisafi: Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Vittorio Grieco: School of Specialization in Hygiene, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Marco Palella: School of Specialization in Hygiene, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Chiara Timperanza: School of Specialization in Hygiene, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Antonio Conti: Regional Agency for Environmental Protection of Sicily, 90149 Palermo, Italy
Giuseppe Cuffari: Regional Agency for Environmental Protection of Sicily, 90149 Palermo, Italy
Margherita Ferrante: School of Specialization in Hygiene, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 10, 1-22

Abstract: This umbrella review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence on the relationship between digital device use and adolescent sleep. It summarizes results from systematic reviews and meta-analyses, presenting the magnitude and direction of observed associations. A total of seven systematic reviews, including five qualitative reviews and two meta-analyses, were included, comprising 127 primary studies with a combined sample of 867,003 participants. The findings suggest a negative impact of digital device use on various sleep parameters, including sleep duration, bedtime procrastination, and sleep quality. Devices such as smartphones and computers were found to have a greater adverse effect, while television use showed a weaker association. The most significant disruptions were observed in relation to social media and internet use, with problematic usage leading to delayed bedtimes, shorter sleep duration, and increased sleep onset latency. The review also highlights the role of timing and duration of device use, with late-night use particularly contributing to sleep disturbances. Biological, psychological, and social mechanisms are proposed as potential pathways underlying these effects. Despite moderate evidence supporting the negative impact of digital media on sleep, there is considerable heterogeneity across studies, and many relied on self-reported data, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research should aim to standardize exposure and outcome measures, incorporate objective data collection methods, and explore causal relationships through longitudinal studies. This umbrella review underscores the importance of developing targeted public health strategies, parental guidance, and clinical awareness to mitigate the potential adverse effects of digital device use on adolescent sleep and mental health.

Keywords: digital devices; sleep; adolescent (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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