Mothers’ Perceptions of the Association Between Smart-Screen Use and Preschool Children’s Sleep Patterns

To analyze the interplay between technology exposure and childhood sleep and offer an understanding of the socio-environmental factors that correlate with sleep quality in early childhood, the author observed mothers’ perceptions of the association between smart-screen exposure and preschool children’s sleep patterns across behavioral, emotional, and sleep-health extents. The study explored the regulation practices and barriers mothers identify in maintaining healthy sleep hygiene. A mixed-methods design was employed. The quantitative strand utilized a tool adapted from validated scales, with content validity verified by an expert panel and construct validity confirmed via Pearson correlation coefficients. Statistical analyses focused on descriptive measures and correlation analysis to identify relationships. Qualitatively, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 mothers, subjected to a strict back-translation process, and analyzed via thematic analysis supported by a systematic coding tree. Quantitative outcomes revealed high levels of perceived sleep disruption (Weighted Means > 3.80). Correlation analysis showed significant positive associations between evening screen exposure and symptoms such as hyperactivity. Qualitative findings deepened these outcomes by identifying “Parental Burnout” and structural household. Barriers. The study recommends screen-free buffers before sleep and highlights the need for institutional support to assist families in managing parental stress.