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 Eylül 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.