Evening Screen Exposure and Its Impact on Sleep Duration

Abstract

Evening screen exposure has become a common part of daily life and may influence normal sleep patterns among adults. This study examines the relationship between screen use during evening hours and sleep duration. Screen exposure is assessed through the use of smartphones, computers, tablets, televisions, and other digital devices before bedtime. Sleep duration is evaluated using self-reported bedtime, wake-up time, sleep onset, nighttime interruptions, and total nightly sleep. The findings suggest that longer evening screen exposure is associated with delayed bedtime, reduced sleep duration, and greater difficulty maintaining regular sleep schedules. Activities such as social media use, streaming, gaming, and messaging may further extend screen time and postpone sleep. The study highlights the importance of reducing unnecessary screen exposure before bedtime, maintaining consistent sleep routines, and encouraging healthier evening habits to support adequate sleep duration and improve overall physical and psychological well-being.