A scoping review of methods of measuring smartphone usage

Screen usage patterns have shifted significantly in recent years, with a notable increase in the use of internet-enabled smartphones among children and adolescents.

The aim of this scoping review was to describe the measurement tools used to estimate smartphone screen time in individuals aged less than 18 years.

We conducted a systematic search in MEDLINE Complete (via PubMed) and ScienceDirect for studies published between May 2014 and May 2024. A total of 89 population-based surveillance studies were included for analysis.

The most common assessment method was the use of non-validated self-report questionnaires completed by parents. Only seven studies used a validated instrument, and in six of these cases, the tool was not specifically designed to measure screen time. Only one study applied a validated scale developed expressly for this purpose: the Screen Time Questionnaire (STQ).

The heterogeneity of current findings on smartphone usage time among minors is evident. There is a clear need for a standardized questionnaire to accurately measure this variable and to support the development of evidence-based guidelines and recommendations.