O uso de smartphones e o grau de dependência digital e sua relação com os fatores associados a aprendizagem, saúde mental e qualidade de vida em estudantes de medicina: um estudo longitudinal.

Abstract

Despite studies evaluating the insertion of technology and the use of smartphones in the mental health and learning of medical students, few have investigated these outcomes longitudinally. Objectified to evaluate the association between smartphone use and digital addiction with mental health, quality of life, learning, and academic motivation of medical students followed for two years. Longitudinal study conducted between 2016 and 2018. Socio-demographic data, smartphone use, degree of digital dependence (Internet Addiction Test), superficial and deep learning approach (Biggs), motivation (Academic Motivation Scale), evaluation of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS- 21) and Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF). Adjusted regression models were used for data analysis. A total of 269 students were included (51.4% of the total). In the two-year follow-up, despite an increase in the frequency of smartphone use (including use in the classroom for non-educational activities), no increase in digital dependence was found. In the adjusted models, the frequency of cell phone use and digital dependence were predictors of lower academic motivation and greater superficial learning. However, only digital dependence was a predictor of worse mental health (anxiety, depression, and stress) and worse quality of life. Concluded greater use of smartphones and high addiction scores were associated with worse educational outcomes. Digital dependence was another marker of outcomes in mental health and quality of life. It is important that educators are aware of these negative effects and can guide students on the proper and safe use of these devices.