Exploring Smartphone Use Among Secondary School Students in a Rural School in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Pilot...

Smartphone use is increasingly common among adolescents, but its impact on academic performance, health, and well-being in rural Bangladesh is poorly understood. This study explored usage patterns, purposes, and potential effects among rural adolescents.

To explore smartphone usage patterns, purposes of use, and associated health and lifestyle effects among secondary school students in a rural region of Bangladesh.

This cross-sectional study was conducted among secondary school students in a village of Chandpur district. Data were collected using a self-reported structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.

Among the participants, 60% were male and 40% female; most were in Grade 10 (33.33%). Daily smartphone use was high, with 43.33% using smartphones for 3-5 h and 21.67% for over 5 h. Entertainment (45%) and communication (22%) were primary uses, whereas only 18.33% used smartphones for study. Facebook (61.67%) and TikTok (56.67%) were most popular. Educational app use was limited, with 81.67% not using any academic apps; YouTube and Zoom were most common among users. Over half (55%) engaged in extra non-academic activities, including online gaming (61.67%). Outdoor activity was limited, and 65% reported being scolded for smartphone use. Common health complaints included decreased concentration (63.33%), headaches (41.67%), vision problems (38.33%), poor academic performance (33.33%), decreased sleep (23.33%), and back pain (21.67%).

Smartphone use is widespread among rural Bangladeshi adolescents, mainly for entertainment and communication, with limited academic engagement. High usage is associated with concentration and health issues. Larger studies and interventions promoting digital literacy and healthy smartphone habits are needed to optimize benefits and minimize risks.