Electronic Media Use and Sleep Quality

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between electronic media use and sleep quality. An online survey was administered to 60 participants, from a largely college based sample with a mean age of 27 years old. They were asked questions pertaining to their sleep quality and quantity. The questionnaire also inquired about electronic media use habits including frequency, duration and time of occurrence. The goal of the study was to investigate whether the increase in electronic media use is negatively correlated with sleep quality. Correlation tests were run on the multiple variables and the results showed a negative correlation between electronic activity and sleep quality, which is measured by daytime sleepiness and difficulties awakening in the mornings. Greater electronic use, predicted decreased sleep quality, although the associations was weakened when number of course credits were entered in the model. The findings in this study are important in determining future sleep habits in adulthood as well as guiding additional research to determine why these effects are occurring and preventative measures that can be taken to decrease the negative effects of media on sleep.