Original Research Article
Year: 2023 | Month: May | Volume: 13 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 223-227
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20230526
Attitude and Beliefs Towards Physical Activity and Smart Devices Usage in School Going Children
Hetvi A. Shah1, Jeel M. Jeevrajani2, Megha Sheth3
1Under-graduate student, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad
2Post-graduate student, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad
3Lecturer, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad
Corresponding Author: Hetvi A. Shah
ABSTRACT
Background: Smart devices addiction and physical inactivity are a major public health problem across the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that children and adolescents acquire moderate-to-vigorous intensity Physical Activity (PA) for more than 60 minutes per day. This research aimed to find the attitude and beliefs towards smart devices usage and physical activity of school going children.
Method: An observational study was conducted in schools of Ahmedabad, on children 8-16 years. Assent to participate was taken. Self-administered questionnaire was used.
Result: 528 students participated with mean age(13.38+1.93) years. Travel to school was by walking 33%, cycling 27%. 93.5% children have knowledge of physical activities, among this 96% students believed that they are physically active but 30% think that they are not active enough. 75% children use smart phones a lot, whereas 34% watch television. Among them 60% usage is continuous at least an hour daily and 30% use them for more than 1 hour. 52% students accept they are missing work and physical activities due to usage of these devices and 48% disagree. 28% student have burning in eyes due to these devices’ usage; 23% students have headaches and some students complain having neck and wrist pain.
Conclusion: School going students believe that smart devices are an integral part of their life. Smart device use may lead to compromise of physical activity. There is a need to find a way to use smart devices correctly and increase level of physical activity among children.
Key words: Smart devices, children, physical activity