Reducing late evening bedtime electronic device intentions and use among young adults

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Sleep Science
• Health Communication

Background:

• Late evening electronic device use is prevalent among young adults.
• This behavior is associated with poor sleep quality and quantity.
• Understanding the psychological factors influencing this behavior is crucial for developing interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association of attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control with intentions to reduce late evening electronic device use.
• To assess the impact of a brief Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)-driven message on reducing electronic device use in young adults.

Main Methods:

• Two online surveys were conducted with young adults aged 18-30.
• Study 1 assessed intentions to reduce electronic device use immediately after receiving a TPB-driven message (n=160).
• Study 2 assessed actual behavior change 24 hours to 1 week after message delivery (n=148).

Main Results:

• Less supportive attitudes and higher perceived behavioral control were associated with greater intention to reduce electronic device use.
• Participants receiving the TPB message showed increased intentions to reduce use (aOR=2.30).
• Those with attitudes inconsistent with limiting use were more likely to reduce their electronic device use post-intervention (aOR=3.13).

Conclusions:

• Attitudes and perceived behavioral control are key determinants of intentions to reduce late evening electronic device use.
• Theory of Planned Behavior-based interventions can effectively decrease electronic device use.
• Reducing electronic device use can lead to improved sleep quantity and quality.