1
|
AlQaderi N, Banibella Abdelmagied Elamin A, Yasser Abdelraouf Abdelmonem K, Teir HJ, Andrade G. Phone addiction, cyberbullying, and mental health amongst young adults in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:313. [PMID: 37803432 PMCID: PMC10557357 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01320-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smartphone addiction is a common phenomenon worldwide and within the UAE. It is related to many factors, including gender and ethnicity, and can lead to mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. This study investigates these factors concerning smartphone addiction among young adults in the UAE. METHODS 421 participants answered a questionnaire of validated and reliable scales measuring smartphone addiction, cyberbullying experiences, mental health, and demographic information. The average age of the participants was 21 years, and the age groups were divided into two groups. Group 1 consists of participants who are 20 years or younger, and group 2 consists of participants aged 21 or older. RESULTS There was a positive correlation between smartphone addiction with both anxiety and depression. A positive correlation was also found between cyberbullying victims, anxiety, and depression. Females were found to have higher levels of anxiety and smartphone addiction in comparison to males. CONCLUSION Smartphone addiction is a problem that connects to disorders like anxiety and depression. Conversely, cyberbullying is not directly related to smartphone addiction but is also strongly related to anxiety and depression.
Collapse
|
2
|
Bouazza S, Abbouyi S, El Kinany S, El Rhazi K, Zarrouq B. Association between Problematic Use of Smartphones and Mental Health in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2891. [PMID: 36833586 PMCID: PMC9956271 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Smartphones have become essential components of daily life, and research into the harmful effects of problematic smartphone use (PSU) on mental health is expanding in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This issue has yet to be synthesized and critically evaluated. To find quantitative observational studies on the relationship between PSU and mental health in the MENA region, we developed a search equation and adapted it for four databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed during the selection process. This review included 32 cross-sectional studies and one cohort study. The available language was English. All identified studies published until 8 October 2021, were considered. A modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies. The studies enrolled 21,487 people and had low-to-moderate methodological quality. The prevalence of PSU ranged from 4.3 to 97.8 percent. The time factor, type of application used on the smartphone, and sociodemographic characteristics were the determinants of PSU. Depression, anxiety, and stress were strongly correlated with PSU. Epidemiological longitudinal studies that respect the quality of evidence are needed in all MENA countries to better plan and implement preventive measures against PSU.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samira Bouazza
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Research in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco
| | - Samira Abbouyi
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Research in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco
| | - Soukaina El Kinany
- Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco
| | - Karima El Rhazi
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Research in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco
| | - Btissame Zarrouq
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Research in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco
- Department of Biology and Geology, Teachers Training College (Ecole Normale Superieure), Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30030, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Świątek AH, Szcześniak M, Aleksandrowicz B, Zaczkowska D, Wawer W, Ścisłowska M. Problematic Smartphone Use and Social Media Fatigue: The Mediating Role of Self-Control. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:211-222. [PMID: 36718180 PMCID: PMC9884050 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s389806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Excessive social media consumption leads to addiction and affects mental health. It is a phenomenon that is difficult to avoid. Previous research on the effects of excessive Internet use shows that people who engage in social media (SM) without restraint experience over-involvement, over-disclosure, technostress, and social media fatigue (SMF). SMF, conceptualized as an emotional and cognitive feeling of being overwhelmed, manifests itself in mindless browsing of content, limiting the amount of time spent on SM, or quitting SM altogether. Self-control, although present in the technology addiction literature and psychology research, has been rarely described in relation to both excessive SM use and SMF. Therefore, the main goal of the present study was to verify whether there is a direct relationship between problematic smartphone use and SMF, and whether this association is mediated by self-control. Methods The study included 210 respondents (M = 25.85, SD = 9.84) living in different Polish cities. The survey was conducted online, and the respondents consented to participate in the study. They completed the following measures: the Mobile Phone Problematic Use, the Self-Control Scale, the Social Media Fatigue Scale, and a brief questionnaire with socio-demographic data. Results Statistical analysis was performed to verify the relationship between problematic mobile phone use, level of self-control, and SMF. The outcomes indicate that there are significant interrelationships between the three studied variables. The association between problematic smartphone use and SMF is mediated by self-control. Conclusion A lack of impulse-inhibition skills, such as compulsive checking of notifications, can be a significant factor in SM exhaustion, fatigue, or frustration. SMF can also be understood as a natural defensive response, triggered in situations where individuals are overwhelmed, when the self-control is insufficient to stop the compulsion to use SM, and the use of a smartphone for this purpose is excessively engaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Małgorzata Szcześniak
- Institute of Psychology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland,Correspondence: Małgorzata Szcześniak, Email
| | | | - Daria Zaczkowska
- Institute of Psychology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Weronika Wawer
- Institute of Psychology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Suseno M, Hayat B, Putra MDK, Bien JK, Rachmawati R, Hartanto H. A differential item functioning (DIF) analysis of the mobile phone problem use scale in Indonesian schools with and without smartphone banned policy. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2022.2137306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Muchlas Suseno
- Department of English Language Education, State University of Jakarta, jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Bahrul Hayat
- Faculty of Psychology, Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Jonna Karla Bien
- Department of Psychology, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - R. Rachmawati
- Faculty of Medicine, Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia
| | - H. Hartanto
- Faculty of Psychology, Widya Dharma University, Klaten, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Casale S, Fioravanti G, Bocci Benucci S, Falone A, Ricca V, Rotella F. A meta-analysis on the association between self-esteem and problematic smartphone use. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
6
|
Mei S, Hu Y, Wu X, Cao R, Kong Y, Zhang L, Lin X, liu Q, Hu Y, Li L. Health Risks of Mobile Phone Addiction Among College Students in China. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00744-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
|
7
|
Abbas H. The Relation of Motivation Factors for Online Games With Personality Disorders, Addiction, Shyness, and Loneliness in Kuwait. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GAMING AND COMPUTER-MEDIATED SIMULATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/ijgcms.295873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Drawing on the Self-Development Theory (SDT), this study examines the relation between the factors that motivate online gaming and the effects of addiction, shyness, and loneliness. We have modified the SDT theory by adding intrinsic and extrinsic factors to measure the degree of its effect on addiction in online gaming settings. Next, we develop a special instrument to measure gamers’ experience and their level of addiction. The sample is 671 online gamers who participated in an online survey. A confirmatory factor analysis and structured equation modeling tests are conducted to identify reliable factors and the goodness of fit of the research model. The findings show that the effect of addiction on shyness and loneliness is minor. Furthermore, loneliness is affected mostly by anxiety of others. In addition, the challenge of meeting the goals of gaming has the greatest effect on addiction. The study offers important implications for decision makers among family members such as parents and among society in general such as policy makers to avoid side effects of online gaming.
Collapse
|
8
|
Sfeir E, Hallit S, Akel M, Salameh P, Obeid S. Smartphone addiction and personality traits among Lebanese adults: the mediating role of self-esteem. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2021; 28:1190-1200. [PMID: 34670447 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2021.1995886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Smartphone usage in Lebanon is increasing constantly. Lebanese population especially university students were described to be at a higher risk of smartphone addiction compared to the general population. To our knowledge there has been no study in the literature that investigated the mediating effect of self-esteem when assessing personality traits and smartphone addiction in young adults. The aim of our study was to assess factors associated with smartphone addiction and investigate the mediating role of self-esteem in the association between smartphone addiction and personality traits. A cross-sectional study was carried out between August and September 2020, during the lockdown period imposed by the government for the COVID-19 pandemic and that coincides with the summer season vacation for most Lebanese, using a sample of community-dwelling participants aged 18 to 29 years. The snowball technique was followed for participants' recruitment. The results showed that the mean age of the participants was 22.25 ± 2.87 years, with 70.9% females. The results showed that 216 (46.9%) of the participants had smartphone addiction. Higher negative emotionality (Beta = 0.17) was significantly associated with more smartphone addiction, whereas higher self-esteem (Beta = -0.37) and household crowding index (Beta = -1.58) were significantly associated with less smartphone addiction. Self-esteem mediated the association between negative emotionality and smartphone addiction. Lebanese young adults were found to be at a high risk of smartphone addiction. These results might serve as a first step towards implementing preventive measures to reduce smartphone addiction. Improving face to face communication, as well as setting specific time for cell phone usage might help reduce the development of addictive behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Sfeir
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon.,Department of Pediatrics, Notre-Dame des Secours University Hospital, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon.,Research and Psychology Departments, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
| | - Marwan Akel
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Sante Publique, Epidemiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut, Lebanon.,School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Sante Publique, Epidemiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut, Lebanon.,University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Lebanon.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sahar Obeid
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Sante Publique, Epidemiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut, Lebanon.,Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ostracism and Problematic Smartphone Use: the Mediating Effect of Social Self-Efficacy and Moderating Effect of Rejection Sensitivity. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00661-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
|
10
|
Vally Z, Alghraibeh AM, Elhai JD. Severity of depression and anxiety in relation to problematic smartphone use in the United Arab Emirates: The mediational roles of rumination and fear of missing out. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/hbe2.259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zahir Vally
- Department of Clinical Psychology United Arab Emirates University Al Ain UAE
- Wolfson College University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | | | - Jon D. Elhai
- Department of Psychology University of Toledo Toledo Ohio USA
- Department of Psychiatry University of Toledo Toledo Ohio USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Symptoms of Internet Gaming Disorder, Inattention, and Impulsivity: a Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in the United Arab Emirates. Psychiatr Q 2021; 92:301-310. [PMID: 32642820 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-020-09799-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The addictive use of internet video games is now recognized as a valid diagnostic construct by both the World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association. A burgeoning body of preliminary evidence points to a relationship between attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms as being a risk factor for behaviors indicative of internet gaming disorder (IGD), however, studies have rarely examined ADHD's two diagnostic constructs, inattention and impulsivity, separately. Moreover, IGD research is non-existent in Middle Eastern contexts. Therefore, this study examined, separately, the association of IGD with inattention and impulsivity in a sample of gamers from the United Arab Emirates. A cross-sectional survey was completed by 214 participants aged 18-33 years (mage = 20.64, SD = 4.34) who completed measures of IGD and ADHD, and self-reported daily duration of gameplay as well as a number of demographic characteristics. The pair of hierarchical linear regressions indicated that both the examined constructs, increased symptoms of inattention and impulsivity, were separately associated with elevated risk for engagement in IGD behaviors. However, these associations were not moderated by gender. These results confirm that symptoms of ADHD are indeed associated with IGD and is the first to confirm the presence of this relationship in a Middle Eastern sample.
Collapse
|
12
|
Linden T, Nawaz S, Mitchell M. Adults’ perspectives on smartphone usage and dependency in Australia. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chbr.2021.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
13
|
Verlinden M, Thomas J, Almansoori MHAA, Wanigaratne S. Gaming Disorder and Well-Being Among Emirati College Women. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:659508. [PMID: 34113271 PMCID: PMC8185199 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.659508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The present study examined Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and depressive symptom levels among a predominantly female sample of college students from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods: IGD was assessed among two successive cohorts of students at the beginning of the academic year in 2016 and 2019, respectively. All participants (n = 412) completed the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale - Short-Form (IGDS9-SF) and the WHO-5 Well-being Index (WHO-5), a tool widely used for the screening and assessment of depressive symptomatology. Results: Mean IGDS9-SF scores (15.85, SD = 6.40) were fairly similar to those observed in other nations. The prevalence of IGD was 1.45%, based on the stringent cut-off score (> = 40). Prevalence of IGD rose to 18.20% when using the less stringent cut-off (> = 21). There was an increase in the rate of IGD between 2016 and 2019, although not statistically significant. Higher IGDS9-SF scores were associated with greater depressive symptomatology; those scoring above the less stringent IGD cut-off had a greater likelihood of screening positive for depression OR = 2.28, 95% CI (1.176-4.428). Conclusions: This study provides insights about IGD among a predominantly female Arab population, finding a correlation with mood disorder symptomatology and suggesting an increase in problematic gaming over time. The results are discussed with reference to the mood repair hypothesis and the possibility of IGD being a dual disorder. The association with depressive symptoms is also discussed in light of the neurobiology of addictive behaviors and sexual dimorphism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Verlinden
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Justin Thomas
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Assessing Risk for Smartphone Addiction: Validation of an Arabic Version of the Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale. Int J Ment Health Addict 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00395-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
|
15
|
Hong W, Liu RD, Ding Y, Zhen R, Jiang R, Fu X. Autonomy Need Dissatisfaction in Daily Life and Problematic Mobile Phone Use: The Mediating Roles of Boredom Proneness and Mobile Phone Gaming. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17155305. [PMID: 32717969 PMCID: PMC7432443 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Psychological needs dissatisfaction has been identified as hindering adaptive development, in which autonomy need dissatisfaction, as one core component, may be associated with adolescents' maladaptive online behaviors. Sporadic research has examined the association between autonomy need dissatisfaction and problematic mobile phone use (PMPU). Boredom proneness and mobile phone gaming were suggested to be linked to this association. This study aimed to examine the mediating effects of boredom proneness and mobile phone gaming in the association between autonomy need dissatisfaction and PMPU. A total of 358 secondary school students completed questionnaires at three waves; autonomy need dissatisfaction was measured in time 1 (T1); boredom proneness and mobile phone gaming were measured one year later (time 2, T2); PMPU was measured two years later (time 3, T3). The structural equation model results showed that T1 autonomy need dissatisfaction not only directly predicted T3 PMPU, but also exerted effects via the mediating role of T2 boredom proneness and the chain mediating role of T2 boredom proneness and T2 mobile phone gaming. These findings reveal the unique role of specific psychological need in engaging PMPU, which provides support to targeted interventions, such that promoting autonomy need satisfaction may be an instrumental procedure to prevent adolescents from addiction-like online behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; (W.H.); (R.J.); (X.F.)
| | - Ru-De Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; (W.H.); (R.J.); (X.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-10-58806324
| | - Yi Ding
- Graduate School of Education, Fordham University, New York, NY 10023, USA;
| | - Rui Zhen
- Institute of Psychological Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China;
| | - Ronghuan Jiang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; (W.H.); (R.J.); (X.F.)
| | - Xinchen Fu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; (W.H.); (R.J.); (X.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lowe-Calverley E, Pontes HM. Challenging the Concept of Smartphone Addiction: An Empirical Pilot Study of Smartphone Usage Patterns and Psychological Well-Being. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2020; 23:550-556. [PMID: 32498607 DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2019.0719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Smartphone use is ubiquitous, however, scholarly debate regarding the addictive nature of smartphones abounds. In this context, it is integral to distinguish between the content that users experience and the medium that facilitates access to the former, as users may experience addictive-like responses to the specific activities they engage in through the context experienced rather than the device that facilitates access to these activities. The present study aimed to explore conceptualizations of smartphone addiction by (a) investigating user preferences for specific smartphone functionalities, (b) examining behavioral changes associated with limited access to preferred functionalities, and (c) exploring links between aspects of smartphone use and self-reported psychological well-being. A total of 471 participants completed an online survey, providing data on sociodemographics, actual and hypothetical smartphone usage, and psychological well-being (depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms). The results showed that communication functionalities were most frequently cited as being preferred among smartphone users. Notably, participants reported that they would check their smartphones significantly fewer times if their top-three functionalities were inaccessible. This suggests that smartphone users are likely to become addicted to the functionalities they access on their smartphones (content) and not the smartphones themselves (medium), rendering unviable the notion of smartphone addiction as a construct. Further analyses suggested negligible to small correlations between aspects of smartphone use and psychological well-being variables. The findings imply that rather than focusing on frequency of smartphone use, it is recommended that future research examines the type and quality of specific smartphone usages and their effects on user well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Lowe-Calverley
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- The International Cyberpsychology and Addictions Research Laboratory (iCARL), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Halley M Pontes
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- The International Cyberpsychology and Addictions Research Laboratory (iCARL), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Vally Z, Laconi S, Kaliszewska-Czeremska K. Problematic Internet Use, Psychopathology, Defense Mechanisms, and Coping Strategies: a Cross-Sectional Study from the United Arab Emirates. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:587-602. [PMID: 32103389 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-020-09719-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A number of studies point to a demonstrated relationship between problematic Internet use (PIU) and psychopathological variables. However, explorations of PIU in relation to defense mechanisms and coping strategies remain rare. The present study sought to determine the extent of PIU among a sample of college-aged young adults resident in the United Arab Emirates. The relationship of PIU to two psychopathological variables (depression and low self-esteem) and two psychological variables (defense mechanisms and coping strategies) were examined. A sample of 697 Emirati participants aged between 18 and 33 years of age completed assessments of PIU, socio-demographic, psychopathological, and psychological variables. A total of 67.3% exhibited PIU. Problematic users produced higher scores for maladaptive coping strategies and for the use of immature, neurotic, and autistic fantasy defenses. Regression analyses revealed that PIU was predicted by the mature, immature, and autistic fantasy defenses as well as, negatively by adaptive coping, and positively by maladaptive coping. These differed when the analyses were repeated on gender-stratified samples. Given that this initial prevalence estimation suggests that PIU may be a substantial issue in this region of the world, future research should examine the mental health risk factors related to PIU, particularly their causal relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahir Vally
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P. O. Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Stéphanie Laconi
- CERPPS (EA7411), Department of Psychology, University of Toulouse Jean Jaurès, Toulouse, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vally Z, D'Souza CG, Habeeb H, El Hichami F. An investigation of the association between body appreciation, need for self-expression, and interest in cosmetic enhancing procedures. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2020; 56:330-337. [PMID: 31544972 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the association between body appreciation and three factors reflective of individuals' need for self-expression: uniqueness, investment in a distinctive appearance, and interest in cosmetic enhancements. DESIGN AND METHODS Cross-sectional, correlational design. Participants (N = 256) completed measurements of body appreciation, interest in cosmetic enhancements, need for uniqueness, and investment in a distinctive appearance. FINDINGS Body appreciation was associated with the need for uniqueness and a distinctive appearance investment. Only a generalized need for uniqueness was associated with a greater tendency to use cosmetic enhancing procedures. IMPLICATIONS Body appreciation appears to be related to established markers of positive striving for uniqueness. Thus, the use of cosmetic enhancements may serve to promote a unique sense of self and, potentially, a more positive body image.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahir Vally
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Caroline G D'Souza
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hiba Habeeb
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatima El Hichami
- School of Midwifery, Nursing, and Health, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mach A, Demkow-Jania M, Klimkiewicz A, Jakubczyk A, Abramowska M, Kuciak A, Serafin P, Szczypiński J, Wojnar M. Adaptation and Validation of the Polish Version of the 10-Item Mobile Phone Problematic Use Scale. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:427. [PMID: 32581858 PMCID: PMC7283544 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological use of smartphones may be the biggest non-drug addiction of the 21st century. Therefore, rapid screening tools designed for easy identification of people with problematic mobile phone use are needed. The main aim of the present study was to validate a short version of the Mobile Phone Problematic Use Scale (MPPUS-10) in the Polish population. The study comprised 640 university students aged 18-38 years. We used a self-report questionnaire that included questions regarding socio-demographic variables and Polish versions of the Mobile Phone Problem Use Scale (MPPUS-10), Mobile Phone Addiction Assessment Questionnaire (MPAAQ in Polish KBUTK), and Internet Addiction Test (IAT) by Kimberly Young. The analysis showed high reliability for the final Polish version of MPPUS-10 (Cronbach's α = 0.78) and confirmed a significant correlation between the MPPUS-10 and the MPAAQ, which was previously used in Poland (rho = 0.56; p < 0.001). Due to the poor correlation of item number 10 with other items, we suggest dropping this item and using the nine-item Polish version. Our result also confirmed significant correlation between the MPPUS-10 and the IAT (rho = 0.54; p < 0.001). The contribution of the study is the Polish validation and adaptation of the MPPUS-10 scale with confirmed psychometric values. It provides a quick and convenient screening tool to assess problematic mobile phone use. Our results also indicate the need for a revision of available diagnostic tools in Poland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mach
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Nowowiejski Psychiatric Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Klimkiewicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Nowowiejski Psychiatric Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Jakubczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Nowowiejski Psychiatric Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Kuciak
- Polish Society for Prevention of Drug Abuse, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Jan Szczypiński
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Laboratory of Brain Imaging, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Wojnar
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Nowowiejski Psychiatric Hospital, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vally Z. Generalized problematic Internet use, depression, and explicit self-esteem: Evidence from the United Arab Emirates. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.npbr.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|