Smartphone Screen Time and Eating Disorder Tendencies in Obese and Normal-Weight Adults: a Cross-Sectional Study From Turkey

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationships between smartphone screen time, eating disorder tendencies, and self-esteem in obese and normal-weight individuals, and to evaluate potential correlation patterns among these variables. Methods: A cross-sectional, comparative study was conducted with 130 participants (64 obese, 66 normal-weight) at Dokuz Eyl & uuml;l University Obesity and Healthy Life Outpatient Clinic. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, daily smartphone screen time was recorded from device settings, and participants completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q-13) and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, and correlation analyses. Results: Obese individuals demonstrated significantly higher daily smartphone screen time (6.4 +/- 1.8 vs. 5.5 +/- 1.5 h; p = 0.019) and greater eating disorder symptoms, including higher total EDE-Q-13 scores (24.3 +/- 6.9 vs. 18.7 +/- 5.8; p < 0.001), body dissatisfaction, and weight/shape concerns. No significant differences in self-esteem were observed between groups (p = 0.478). Correlation analyses revealed positive associations between body mass index (BMI) and body dissatisfaction (r = 0.537, p < 0.001) and between smartphone screen time and body dissatisfaction (r = 0.203, p = 0.021). Self-esteem was negatively correlated with body dissatisfaction (r = - 0.244, p = 0.006) and binge eating (r = - 0.229, p = 0.010), but not with smartphone screen time (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Obese individuals exhibited higher smartphone screen time and more pronounced eating disorder-related tendencies, particularly body dissatisfaction and weight concerns, compared to normal-weight individuals. However, self-esteem levels did not differ significantly between groups, suggesting that cultural and psychosocial factors may buffer self-esteem despite obesity. These findings highlight the importance of addressing digital media use and eating behaviors in obesity management and prevention strategies.