The Effects of Smartphone Screen Time on Behavioral Variability

Abstract

Individuals diagnosed with conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and depressive disorders tend to display variable behavior, disparate from their peers.  Studies have shown that variable behavior can be either enhanced or reduced through reinforcement.  However, these factors are poorly understood.  Screen time has been hypothesized as a factor that may influence behavioral variability.  The following study explores the possible relationship between smartphone screen time, behavioral variability, and self-reported ADHD, ASD, and depressive symptoms, using a threefold methodology:  first participants reported their screen time use through a smartphone application.  Next, participants completed a computer-based task assessing behavioral variability, during which they drew rectangles on a screen.  Points were awarded for rectangles that differed from those previously made.  Finally, participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), Autism Spectrum Quotient-10 (AQ-10), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1).  We found weak correlations between scores on the AQ-10 and the ASRS-v1.1, as well as between the ASRS-v1.1 and the BDI-II.  At the same time, there were moderate correlations between difference measures of behavioral variability, and a correlation between objective and subjective screen time scores, revealing consistency in these assessments.  Results nevertheless indicated no systemic relation between screen time and behavioral variability.