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Effect of Computer Usage on Visual Reaction Time in Information Technology Professionals of Bangalore City
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Background: Reaction time is the elapsed time between presentation of a sensory stimulus and the subsequent behavioural response. Time taken to respond to visual stimulus gives visual reaction time. In the modern world, the usage of computers for occupational purpose is increasing with increased duration of usage, especially in IT profession. Few studies have been done on reaction time in mobile phone users and video game players, but no study is done in occupational computer users.
Objective: To compare visual reaction time between occupational computer users (use computer for work >40hrs/week) and the controls (recreational computer users : <15hrs/week)
Materials and Method: Study was done on 30 occupational computer users (use computer for work >40hrs/ week) and 30 recreational computer users (<15hrs/week) in the age group 20-35 years, after institutional ethical committee clearance and consent from all subjects. Visual Reaction Time was measured using Human Benchmark Software. Student’s t test was used for statistical analysis and p value <0.05 taken statistically significant.
Results: Results showed a statistically significant decrease in visual reaction time in occupational computer users with a p value of 0.01
Conclusion: Usage of computer for longer hours especially for occupational purpose decreases the visual reaction time in the individuals when compared with those who use it for lesser hours like recreational purpose.
Keywords
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