The Interplay of Screen Brightness and Sustained Use on Digital Eye Strain and Visual Performance in High School Students: A Narrative Review

Authors

  • Zhenxiang Gao

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/mhg7fs67

Keywords:

Digital Eye Strain; Screen Brightness; Adolescents; Visual Fatigue; Computer Vision Syndrome.

Abstract

The increasing use of electronic devices is contributing to a growing incidence of Digital Eye Strain (DES) in the student population. This literature review discusses the correlation between two main independent variables that contribute to the development of DES: screen brightness and duration of use. While a well-established risk factor for DES is excessive duration of electronic usage, recent studies show an independent relationship between the difference in screen brightness and ambient lighting relative to the occurrence of DES regardless of duration of use. The review also describes the physiological basis for experiencing visual discomfort because of damage to the ocular tear film and disturbance of the circadian rhythms, as well as how environmental elements can play a role in visual fatigue. Factors influencing visual fatigue include device usage duration, environmental lighting conditions, text contrast, and user behavior. Finally, the review provides practical recommendations from the research to help reduce the prevalence of DES among adolescents.

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References

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Published

17-04-2026

How to Cite

The Interplay of Screen Brightness and Sustained Use on Digital Eye Strain and Visual Performance in High School Students: A Narrative Review. (2026). Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology, 162, 204-209. https://doi.org/10.54097/mhg7fs67