ABSTRACT

Background: The rapid proliferation of digital devices has transformed daily life, with undergraduate students among the heaviest users. Excessive screen exposure has raised concerns regarding its impact on cognitive domains such as reaction time and attention span, both of which are critical for academic performance and daily functioning. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of screen time on reaction time and attentional control in undergraduate students. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical observational study was conducted among 100 undergraduate students aged 18–25 years. Screen exposure was assessed using the validated 18-item Screen Time Questionnaire (STQ). Reaction time was measured using the Human Benchmark Reaction Time Test (HBRT), while attention and inhibitory control were assessed using the Stroop Colour-Word Test. Descriptive statistics were calculated, normality was tested using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and Pearson’s correlation was applied to examine associations between screen time and cognitive outcomes. Result: Participants reported a mean daily screen time of 490.5 ± 150.0 minutes. The mean reaction time was 222.6 ± 27.0 ms, and the mean Stroop interference score was 20.1 ± 3.6 seconds. Pearson’scorrelation revealed a very strong positive association between screen time and reaction time (r = 0.9963, p < 0.001) as well as between screen time and Stroop interference (r = 0.9942, p < 0.001), indicating that higher screen exposure was significantly associated with slower responses and reduced attentional control. Conclusion: Excessive screen time is strongly linked to impaired cognitive performance in young adults. Strategies to promote balanced digital use and digital hygiene may help mitigate these adverse effects. Keywords: Screen time, Reaction time, Attention span, Stroop test, Undergraduate students
Publication date: 01/08/2026

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/August/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10387.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.8.10387