Abstract

Overview

The study investigates potential long-term impacts of mobile phone (MP) and cordless phone (CP) usage on the cognitive development of primary school children in Australia.

Background

• Previous research indicated potential associations between children's use of mobile and cordless phones and their cognitive function development.

Methods

• Data on use of MPs and CPs alongside socio-demographics were collected across two time points, 2010-2012 and 2012-2013.
• Cognitive performance was assessed using the CogHealth(tm) test battery and the Stroop Color-Word test.
• Changes in weekly MP/CP voice call frequencies were recorded and analyzed for their impact on various cognitive outcomes.

Findings

• A higher proportion of children consistently used CPs compared to MPs over the observed period.
• Significant cognitive changes correlated with an increase in MP usage, impacting response times and error rates in specific cognitive tasks, although changes linked to CP usage were not conclusive except in one task.

Conclusion

This study highlights limited evidence suggesting changes in MP and CP usage could influence cognitive outcomes in children. The results should inspire further research into understanding these associations more precisely, especially considering the ubiquitous nature of these technologies in children's environments.