A structured recreational exercise program reduces digital addiction and improves sleep quality in children aged 10-14
An 8-week recreational exercise program (3 sessions per week) significantly reduced digital addiction levels and improved sleep quality in 40 children aged 10-14, with large effect sizes. Improvements were maintained at a 6-week follow-up, while the control group showed no significant changes.
This article is automatically generated from the structured evidence profile behind the claim above. Scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical advice.
A structured recreational exercise program reduces digital addiction and improves sleep quality in children aged 10-14 The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 44/100 (low).
The Claim
A structured recreational exercise program reduces digital addiction and improves sleep quality in children aged 10-14
This conclusion is most relevant to: 40 middle school students aged 10-14 (20 girls, 20 boys).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Effects of a recreational exercise program on digital addiction and sleep quality in children. (Frontiers in psychology, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Recreational exercise provides structured physical activity
- ▸Reduces sedentary screen time and digital engagement
- ▸Improves physiological and psychological regulation
- ▸Result: Decreased digital addiction and enhanced sleep quality
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸40 middle school students aged 10-14 (20 girls, 20 boys)
Recommended Dose
3 sessions per week for 8 weeks
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Small sample size (n=40) limits generalizability
- ▸No blinding of participants or instructors due to exercise intervention nature
- ▸Follow-up limited to 6 weeks; long-term sustainability unknown
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of exercise was included in the recreational program?▼
The abstract does not specify the exact activities, only that it was a structured recreational exercise program with an adaptation phase.
How was digital addiction measured?▼
Digital addiction was assessed using the Digital Addiction Scale for Adolescents.
Were there any differences between boys and girls in the results?▼
The abstract does not report subgroup analyses by gender.
Can this program be implemented in schools?▼
The authors suggest school-based recreational interventions are promising, but the study was conducted with a small sample and requires replication.
References
- 1.Altin M. “Effects of a recreational exercise program on digital addiction and sleep quality in children..” Frontiers in psychology, 2026. PMID: 42459611 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1869072