Abstract
Introduction: The proliferation of digital technologies has led to significant changes in the lives of early adults, who are particularly prone to high levels of digital media consumption. This study aims to quantify the effects of multimodal digital experiences on cognitive functioning and mental health outcomes in early adults aged 18-29.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 early adults in Pakistan, using an online questionnaire to collect data on demographic information, anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, and digital media exposure. Validated scales such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) were utilized. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analyses.
Results: Significant associations were found between digital media use and symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Heavy media multitaskers exhibited greater cognitive overload and higher levels of anxiety and depression. Conversely, certain types of digital media, like video gaming, showed improvements in specific cognitive skills. Sleep duration was identified as a significant factor influencing mental health outcomes, with inadequate sleep linked to higher anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and hyperactivity levels.
Conclusion: Multimodal digital experiences have a complex impact on cognitive and mental health outcomes in early adults. While some digital media can enhance cognitive skills, excessive use can lead to cognitive overload and adverse mental health effects. Balanced and mindful digital media consumption is crucial for maintaining cognitive and mental well-being in early adults.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 early adults in Pakistan, using an online questionnaire to collect data on demographic information, anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, and digital media exposure. Validated scales such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) were utilized. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analyses.
Results: Significant associations were found between digital media use and symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Heavy media multitaskers exhibited greater cognitive overload and higher levels of anxiety and depression. Conversely, certain types of digital media, like video gaming, showed improvements in specific cognitive skills. Sleep duration was identified as a significant factor influencing mental health outcomes, with inadequate sleep linked to higher anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and hyperactivity levels.
Conclusion: Multimodal digital experiences have a complex impact on cognitive and mental health outcomes in early adults. While some digital media can enhance cognitive skills, excessive use can lead to cognitive overload and adverse mental health effects. Balanced and mindful digital media consumption is crucial for maintaining cognitive and mental well-being in early adults.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 741-754 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Journal | Revista Electronica de Veterinaria |
| Volume | 25 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - May 2024 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Digital media
- Cognitive symptoms
- Mental health
- Early adults
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Media multitasking
- sleep duration