STUDENT NAME : ESWARY A/P VASUDEVAN

MATRIKS NUMBER : P20231000576

COURSE : EDUCATIONAL PSYCOLOGY

Title: The Relationship Between Screen Time and Mental Health in Adults : A Comprehensive
Literature Review

1.0 Introduction

Screen time's pervasiveness in modern life influences many dimensions of individual and social
behaviour. Adults spend increasingly more time engaged in screen-mediated activities as their
dependence on digital gadgets and technology grows. The growing popularity of electronic
media demands investigation into its possible effects on adult mental health. Deciphering the
modern issues encountered by people is dependent on understanding the complex links between
screen usage and mental well-being. Exploring these connections is important because of the
influence they may have on people' health and happiness. The impact of screen time, which is
increasingly present in every part of life, from work to play, is of growing concern. Extensive
research into the topic is warranted by the wide-ranging effects that too much time in front of a
computer may have, from increased stress to the worsening of preexisting mental health issues.

The purpose of this literature review is to examine the available studies on the topic of screen
time and adult mental health in order to better understand the complex relationships between the
two. This literature review is more than a simple summary of individual studies; rather, it seeks
to provide a comprehensive overview of the field as a whole. This review aims to provide a
nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between screen time and mental health by
synthesising the findings of a wide range of studies, including those conducted in specific
cultural contexts like China (Zhang et al., 2022) and broader examinations of lifestyle
disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic (Giuntella et al., 2021). The review's investigation
adds to the body of knowledge by shedding light on the nuances of adults' modern digital lives
and their effects on their mental health.
2.0 Literiture Review
Numerous results from studies on the link between adult screen usage and psychological well-
being highlight the complex nature of this correlation. There has been a continuous message
from the research in this field about the significance of understanding the complexities of screen-
mediated activities and their possible effects on mental health. Among the many studies that
have looked at the correlation between excessive screen usage and psychological distress in
Chinese people, Zhang et al. (2022) stands out. Employing rigorous methodology, the research
reveals crucial characteristics that highlight the complicated interaction between screen usage
and mental health consequences. However, the study by Zhang et al. is not without its flaws, as
is the case with every research project. Its cultural distinctiveness and scientific rigour are its
strengths, whereas sample size limitations and worries about generalizability might be its
shortcomings. These subtle considerations must be taken into account if the results are to be
properly understood.

Davies et al. (2012) examine the links between individuals' health-related quality of life and their
levels of physical activity and screen time. There are consequences for mental health, and the
results of this study not only show the complex interplay between these factors. However, there
are some complications in the literature. In light of any inconsistencies or holes in the larger
body of research, Davies et al.'s study highlights the need of taking a holistic and critical stance
towards understanding results. Hamer et al.'s (2010) contribution to the literature examines how
watching TV and other screen-based activities affects individuals' mental health. When
compared to other research in the area, their results show similarities and differences that add
depth to our knowledge of how screen time affects mental health. The strength of findings is
improved by using this comparative method, which emphasises the importance of placing
research results within the larger body of literature.

The new approach used by Twenge and Farley (2021) investigates the potential mental health
effects of varying amounts of screen time and gender. The core results of this study, together
with any novel viewpoints given, contribute to the larger story about the effects of screen usage
on mental health. In order to build a complete grasp of the topic at hand, it is essential to have a
handle on the variety of these impacts. Finally, Giuntella et al. (2021) add to our understanding
of the connection of screen usage, mental health, and other lifestyle factors during the COVID-
19 epidemic. The research adds to our knowledge of how environmental circumstances might
alter the connection between screen exposure and mental well-being by evaluating the
significance of these disruptions in the larger context of screen time and mental health. These
findings highlight the need for nuanced interpretations and a comprehensive examination of
multiple variables at play in the association between screen usage and mental health among
adults.

3.0 Critique and Synthesis

The literature analysis conducted on the correlation between screen time and mental health in
adults provides significant insights. However, a thorough assessment of the study shows both
strengths and shortcomings within the existing body of literature. The studies have many notable
strengths, such as the rigorous use of research methods, the consideration of cultural nuances,
and the inclusion of varied viewpoints. These strengths together contribute to a thorough
understanding of the intricate relationship between screen time and mental health. Nevertheless,
it is crucial to use caution when interpreting the findings due to some limitations, including
constraints imposed by the sample size, questions about the generalizability of the results, and
the possibility of biases.

The identification of patterns, correlations, and themes within the sources serves to illuminate
reoccurring topics that are present across the many studies. There is a growing consensus on the
complex influence of screen time on mental well-being, highlighting the need of a
comprehensive approach that takes into account diverse elements including cultural milieu,
particular screen-based engagements, and individual variations. Patterns also suggest the
significance of including screen time into the analysis of mental well-being, alongside other
factors like physical exercise and lifestyle modifications, in order to have a comprehensive
understanding of its impact within a larger context.

The process of integrating data from the examined research papers enhances the development of
a nuanced and full comprehension of the subject matter. The cumulative results emphasise the
nuanced nature of the association between screen time and mental health, which is impacted by a
multitude of variables. An analysis of these research demonstrates that the effects of screen time
are not consistent and varied across various groups, cultural settings, and kinds of screen-based
activities. This multifaceted viewpoint presents a counterargument to oversimplified assertions
and underscores the need of tailored methodologies for examining the psychological
ramifications of adult screen use. A comprehensive assessment of the merits and limitations,
identification of recurring themes and connections, and integration of findings from the
examined research together enhance a nuanced comprehension of the correlation between screen
use and psychological well-being in adult individuals. The aforementioned methodology
recognises the intricacy of the subject matter, promoting a heightened understanding that takes
into account the multitude of aspects that contribute to the influence of screen time on one's
psychological well.

4.0 Conclusion

In conclusion, the literature review, by relying on the findings of a wide range of research, has
given a thorough analysis of the link between screen time and mental health in adults. This
summary drove home the point that screen time is omnipresent in today's culture and that it's
crucial to comprehend the complex effects it has on people's psyches. Understanding that the
influence of screen time is dependant on cultural circumstances, particular screen activities, and
individual characteristics, this synthesis of research highlights the multidimensional nature of the
screen time and mental health relationship. Study by study's strengths and shortcomings being
analysed critically helps to provide a more nuanced viewpoint, which in turn promotes a more
deliberate interpretation of research findings. The findings suggest a need for more nuanced,
individual analyses of the effects of screen use on individuals' mental health.

The larger implications of these results extend beyond individual research, giving insight on the
intricate interaction between the digital world and mental well-being. In order to promote a
holistic approach to mental health in the digital era, it is crucial to grasp the consequences of the
increasing use of screens in many facets of everyday life. According to the research, when
evaluating the effects of screen time on mental health, it is not enough to just look at the total
amount of time spent in front of a screen. Future study may want to investigate the distinct
contributions of various forms of digital interaction to mental health outcomes by delving further
into certain screen activities. Given the dynamic nature of technology and its pervasive presence
in modern life, longitudinal studies may also provide light on the long-term consequences of
screen time on mental health. Giuntella et al.'s (2021) analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic is
indicative of the growing importance of studying the interplay between screen time and other
lifestyle variables and environmental effects. To better understand the complex relationships
between screen time and psychological well-being in the changing context of contemporary life,
additional study is needed.
References

Zhang, Y., Li, Q., Hu, W., Zhan, N., Zou, J., Wang, J., & Geng, F. (2022). The relationships
between screen time and mental health problems among Chinese adults. Journal of
Psychiatric Research, 146, 279-285.

Davies, C. A., Vandelanotte, C., Duncan, M. J., & van Uffelen, J. G. (2012). Associations of
physical activity and screen-time on health-related quality of life in adults. Preventive
Medicine, 55(1), 46-49.

Hamer, M., Stamatakis, E., & Mishra, G. D. (2010). Television- and screen-based activity and
mental well-being in adults. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 38(4), 375-380.

Twenge, J. M., & Farley, E. (2021). Not all screen time is created equal: associations with
mental health vary by activity and gender. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology,
56, 207-217.

Giuntella, O., Hyde, K., Saccardo, S., & Sadoff, S. (2021). Lifestyle and mental health
disruptions during COVID-19. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 118(9),
e2016632118.