Nomophobia among university students: Prevalence, correlates, and the mediating role of smartphone use between Facebook addiction and nomophobia

The mediating effect of nomophobia in the relationship between problematic social media use/problematic smartphone use and psychological distress among university students

As smartphones and social media become more common, the psychological impact on university students has garnered increasing research attention. The present study examined nomophobia as the mediator in the relatioship between problematic social media use (PSMU)/ problematic smartphone use (PSU), and psychological distress among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the 622 Malaysian university students recruited through online survey, socio-demographic information, Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale (SABAS), Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMPQ) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) were completed. To analyze mediation effects, partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used. PSMU, PSU and psychological distress were found to be positively related to nomophobia. Nomophobia was a significant mediator between PSMU/PSU and psychological distress. Findings appear to highlight the importance of nomophobia in increasing psychological distress among young adults. Future research could examine these relationships longitudinally to better understand the relationship for effective interventions for the improvement of psychological well-being of young adults navigating the challenges of modern technology.

The impact of physical exercise on mobile phone addiction among college students: a study based on Chinese universities

To explore the impact of physical exercise on mobile phone addiction (MPA) among college students and the underlying psychological mechanisms, a questionnaire survey method is utilized to conduct empirical analysis on students from multiple colleges in China. This study uses Physical Activity Rating Scale-3, Mobile Phone Addiction Tendencies Scale (MPATS), Self-Acceptance Questionnaire, and Chinese Perceived Stress Scale to measure psychological variables such as physical activity level, degree of MPA, and self-acceptance and perceived stress among college students. The study reveals the mechanism of physical exercise in reducing MPA. The research results demonstrate a significant negative correlation between MPA and physical exercise. Exercise frequency has the most remarkable influence on withdrawal symptoms and salience behaviors, with correlation coefficients of -0.35 and -0.30, respectively. These findings show that regular engagement in physical activity can substantially mitigate the dependency of college students on mobile phones. Exercise intensity and exercise duration also have a negative effect on MPA, and the correlation coefficient of exercise intensity on withdrawal symptoms is -0.32. Furthermore, self-acceptance as a moderating variable plays an important protective role within the nexus between physical exercise and MPA. Students with higher self-acceptance levels show significant remission in both withdrawal symptoms (β = -0.30) and mood changes (β = -0.28), with model interpretability increasing from 0.34 to 0.43. On the contrary, perceived stress, as a risk-regulating variable, is positively correlated with MPA, and the impact of perceived stress on withdrawal symptoms is 0.35. Additionally, under conditions of elevated perceived stress, the physical exercise's mitigating effect on mobile phone dependence is attenuated. Therefore, self-acceptance can enhance the individual's self-identity, weaken the negative emotional reaction brought by MPA, and help to improve the intervention effect of physical exercise. On the contrary, perceived stress weakens the relieving effect of physical exercise on mobile phone dependence, and individuals with high-stress levels are more likely to maintain MPA behavior. This study makes a valuable contribution to the literature on the interplay.

Psychometric validation of the Bangla Digital Addiction Scale for Teenagers and its associated factors among adolescents: MeLiSA study

BACKGROUND

Digital addiction among adolescents is an escalating concern with profound psychological implications, yet validated tools to measure it and studies exploring its relationship remain limited.

AIMS

To validate the Bangla Digital Addiction Scale for Teenagers (Bangla DAST) and identify factors of digital addiction among Bangladeshi adolescents.

METHODS

Using a two-stage stratified cluster sampling method, data from 1496 adolescents in Bangladesh were collected and analysed using non-parametric tests, Spearman correlations and multiple regression models.

RESULTS

The two-factor structure, encompassing attachment to digital devices (Factor 1) and compulsive use in different places (Factor 2) was supported by confirmatory factor analysis (comparative fit index 0.97, Tucker-Lewis index 0.95, root mean square error of approximation 0.06 [90% CI: 0.056-0.07] and standardised root mean square residual 0.048). McDonald's omega was 0.81 for the total scale, 0.77 for Factor 1 and 0.63 for Factor 2. Convergent validity was supported by significant associations between digital addiction and psychological symptoms. Factors of digital addiction included age (b = 0.517, P = 0.020), academic grade (b = 0.737, P = 0.021), depression (b = 0.334, P < 0.001), anxiety (b = 0.400, P < 0.001) and insomnia (b = 0.504, P < 0.001). In contrast, female gender (b = -1.250, P = 0.001), not sleeping alone (b = -0.846, P = 0.029) and reduced smartphone usage (b = -1.895, P < 0.001) were associated with lower digital addiction scores. The model accounted for 23.1% of the variance in digital addiction.

CONCLUSIONS

The Bangla DAST appears to be a psychometrically valid and reliable tool and can be used for further studies assessing digital addiction among Bangladeshi adolescents. The study highlights the need for targeted preventive measures, particularly focusing on at-risk groups.

Exploring the prevalence of nomophobia, its contributing factors, and the relationship with social interaction anxiety among nursing students

BACKGROUND

Nomophobia and social anxiety have significant negative implications for the physical and mental health of students, as well as their academic performance. Considering the variability in findings across studies on the prevalence of nomophobia and social anxiety, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of nomophobia, its associated factors, and its relationship with social interaction anxiety among nursing students.

METHODS

This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted between August 22nd and September 23rd, 2023, at the School of Nursing and Midwifery in Kermanshah, located in western Iran. A convenience sampling method was employed, resulting in the recruitment of 258 participants. Data were collected using a three-part questionnaire, including a demographic information form, the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) to assess the severity of nomophobia, and the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS) to measure social anxiety levels. Data were analyzed using STATA, version 14. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic and clinical characteristics. The Chi-square test, one-way analysis of variance, the Pearson correlation coefficient, and linear regression modeling were employed for inferential analysis.

RESULTS

All participating nursing students (n = 258) exhibited some degree of nomophobia. The prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe nomophobia was 40.7%, 40.3%, and 19%, respectively. Furthermore, 25.6% of the students experienced social anxiety. A significant positive correlation was found between nomophobia scores and social interaction anxiety (r =.37, P <.001). Social interaction anxiety emerged as the only significant independent predictor of nomophobia (P <.001), explaining 21% of the variance in nomophobia scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate both the prevalence of nomophobia and social anxiety, as well as the correlation between these two factors among students. Considering the numerous risks associated with nomophobia and social interaction anxiety, it is essential to optimize technology use and improve social interactions among students. Identifying students at risk of nomophobia and social interaction anxiety and providing psychological counseling services to them should be prioritized.

The prevalence of nomophobia in Cyprus and its relationship with coping styles

Introduction

The rise in smartphone use and the resulting dependence has led to the emergence of nomophobia, a term describing the anxiety or discomfort experienced when individuals are without their mobile phones. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of nomophobia among adults in Cyprus and explore its relationship with demographic characteristics, reasons for smartphone use, and coping styles.

Methods

In line with this aim, participants were 300 adults from Cyprus recruited by convenience and snowball sampling methods. The data were collected via an internet-based questionnaire that examined participants' level of nomophobia, reasons for phone use, time spent on their phones, and coping styles. The study utilized a Personal Information Form, the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), and the Brief Coping to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief COPE) to gather data.

Results

The results suggest that (a) nearly all participants (99.3%) exhibited some level of nomophobia, with more than half of our sample (51.3%) experiencing moderate levels, (b) younger adults, women, and individuals with lower education levels were more prone to nomophobia, (c) communication and social media were positively related to nomophobia, and (d) maladaptive and avoidant coping strategies exacerbated the severity of nomophobia.

Discussion

The findings highlight the growing concern of nomophobia and stress the need for educational programs promoting healthier smartphone habits.

Tackling nomophobia: the influence of support systems and organizational practices

This study investigates the growing issue of nomophobia, characterized by the anxiety of being without a mobile phone, in the workplace. Utilizing the broaden-and-build theory, this research examines the impact of supportive leadership, co-worker support, Human Resource Management (HRM) practices, and affective commitment on reducing nomophobia among employees. Data were collected from 393 employees across various educational organizations. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings reveal that supportive leadership significantly reduces nomophobia by enhancing HRM practices and affective commitment. However, contrary to expectations, co-worker support was found to increase nomophobia, suggesting that informal communication and social interactions via mobile devices might exacerbate smartphone dependency. HRM practices emerged as a critical factor in mitigating nomophobia, more so than affective commitment. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the complex dynamics of workplace relationships and offering practical insights for organizations aiming to reduce nomophobia and improve employee well-being.

Assessment of Knowledge and Outcomes of Nomophobia Among Students at a Selected Degree College in Riyadh

Introduction

Nomophobia, the fear of being without a mobile phone, is increasingly prevalent among university students, impacting their psychological well-being and academic performance. This study assesses the level of knowledge and the psychological, academic, and social outcomes associated with nomophobia among students at King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, involving 350 undergraduate students recruited via convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q). Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression, were conducted using IBM SPSS.

Results

The majority of participants (51.4%) exhibited moderate knowledge of nomophobia. Higher nomophobia scores were significantly associated with lower academic performance (r = -0.35, p < 0.001) and greater psychological distress, including anxiety (mean score = 5.2) and panic when phone battery was low (mean score = 4.8). Regression analysis identified gender (β = 0.28, p = 0.001) and smartphone ownership (β = 0.20, p = 0.003) as predictors of nomophobia.

Discussion

The findings highlight nomophobia's negative impact on students' academic and psychological well-being, emphasizing the need for educational interventions to promote healthier smartphone usage. Addressing nomophobia through targeted strategies could improve academic outcomes and overall student wellness.

Nomophobia among nursing students: prevalence and associated factors

Nomophobia, or the fear of being without a mobile phone, has been linked to negative impacts on the physical, psychological, and academic well-being of students, including nursing students. While the prevalence of nomophobia and its associated factors vary across studies, limited research has focused on nursing students in Hamedan-Iran. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of nomophobia and its related factors among nursing students in Hamedan Province. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 nursing students recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected through the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMPQ). Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé post-hoc tests, and Multiple linear regression, were performed using STATA-14 software to determine the prevalence of nomophobia and identify factors associated with nomophobia among nursing students. Nursing students' mean total nomophobia score was 73.8 ± 23.7 (out of 140). A substantial proportion (72%) experienced moderate to severe nomophobia. Nomophobia severity was significantly associated with educational level, grade point average, smartphone checking frequency, daily internet usage, and primary phone use (academic vs. non-academic). Educational level, grade point average, and smartphone checking frequency emerged as significant predictors of nomophobia. The present study reveals a high prevalence of nomophobia among nursing students. Given the detrimental impact of nomophobia on physical and mental health, as well as academic performance, there is a pressing need for targeted interventions. Raising awareness about the adverse consequences of excessive smartphone use and providing accessible counseling and psychological support services can be effective strategies to mitigate the negative effects of nomophobia in this population.

Adaptation and validation of the Moroccan dialect version of the nomophobia questionnaire (NMP-Q): Among university students

The fear of being without a mobile phone, known as nomophobia, is a new psychological issue that has arisen with the widespread use of information and communication technologies. To understand this phenomenon, more research is needed. The present study aimed to assess the factor structure of the Moroccan dialect version of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) among a sample of Moroccan university students. The study included 400 students selected by convenience sampling from two universities (Fez and Rabat). First, an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted using the principal component method with Varimax rotation. Then, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM) were carried out. The results showed that a 20-item, four-factor model was the best fit for the data collected from the sample, indicating cross-cultural validity and the robustness of the NMP-Q's structure. This suggests that the Moroccan version of the NMP-Q is useful for assessing nomophobia behavior among Moroccan university students.

Exploring risk factors and determinants: A scoping review of factors associated with nomophobia

Background

Nomophobia or no-mobile-phone phobia, defined as the fear of being unable to use or being unreachable via one's mobile phone. The pervasive concern has varied bio-psychosocial and clinical implications in an individual's life. Nomophobia is currently in an exploratory phase.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to systematically map the relevant evidence and literature on nomophobia. The review of scholarly literature spanning from January 2010 to May 2023 employed a narrative synthesis methodology to succinctly encapsulate the research findings. Additionally, it encompassed a meticulous examination and visual representation of studies, detailing both the frequency of investigation into specific variables and the instances in which said variables exhibited a statistically significant association with nomophobia.

Results

A thorough examination of 92 studies revealed a total of 133 variables spanning demographic, lifestyle-related, academic, smartphone-related, psychosocial, and clinical domains. Notably, 42.86% of these variables have only been investigated in a single research study, underscoring the imperative for replication to enhance the generalizability, validity, and applicability of research findings. Moreover, the review identifies Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) by Yildirim and Correia as the most widely used tool for measuring the severity of nomophobia.

Conclusion

There is a crucial need for homogeneity and consistency in reporting nomophobia scores and establishing corresponding gradations indicative of functional ramifications or clinical severity of nomophobia. The findings elucidate significant research gaps in existing literature on nomophobia, hold implications for further synthesis of data, and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of nomophobia; ensuring superior diagnostic accuracy and precision, and facilitating successful delivery of targeted interventions.

The effect of nomophobic behaviors among nurses on their clinical decision-making perceptions

AIM

This study aimed to explore the impact of nomophobic behaviors among hospital nurses on their clinical decision-making perceptions. This understanding can offer insights to enhance the work environment, improve the clinical decision-making ability of nurses and guide medical institutions in the management of related equipment and policy development.

BACKGROUND

The term "nomophobia" refers to the anxiety and fear individuals experience when they cannot use their smartphones or when smartphones are not accessible. Nursing clinical decision-making is a complex process, including a meticulous assessment of the patient's pathological condition and medical history, alongside the application of nursing knowledge and experiential learning rooted in critical thinking. The concept of clinical decision-making perceptions is defined as a deliberate cognitive understanding of one's decision-making processes, which significantly influences the clinical decision-making capabilities of healthcare professionals, thereby impacting the quality of patient care. The factors influencing these clinical decision-making perceptions have been the subject of extensive research. However, there is no Chinese research on the impact of nurses ' nomophobic behaviors on their clinical decision-making perception.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional descriptive survey using online-based delivery modes was used.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. Using convenience sampling, we surveyed the nurses from a tertiary hospital in Nanjing in May 2023. Data were gathered using a sociodemographic data form, the Nomophobia Questionnaire and the Clinical Decision-Making in Nursing Scale. Techniques including the independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were employed to probe the degree of nomophobia and its effects on their perception of clinical decision-making. Out of 284 questionnaires gathered, 272 were deemed valid, resulting in a 95.8% effective response rate.

RESULTS

The data revealed that participants exhibited a medium level of nomophobia (54.01 ± 24.09) and clinical decision-making perceptions (144.94 ± 20.08). A robust negative correlation was discerned between nomophobia and clinical decision-making perceptions (r: -0.365, P<0.001). This study highlighted that as the degree of nomophobia intensified, nurses' clinical decision-making perceptions decreased with the increase in nomophobia.

CONCLUSION

Nomophobic behaviors can hamper nurses' perception of clinical decision-making, potentially leading to inaccuracies or errors. Nurses must use mobile phones judiciously, practice self-regulation and mitigate the disruptive effects of nomophobia on their decision-making. In addition, medical institutions should foster relevant education or craft policies to regularize mobile phone use, augmenting nurses' efficiency and decision-making prowess, enhancing patient care quality, diminishing medical errors and ensuring patient health and safety.

Relationship between smartphone addiction, loneliness, and depression in adolescents: A correlational structural equation modeling study

PURPOSE

This study was aimed to investigate the relationship between smartphone addiction, loneliness, and depression in adolescents.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was designed in a correlational-cross-sectional-descriptive model and was conducted with 1041 adolescents attending high schools in a provincial center in Eastern Turkey. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a personal information form, Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version for Adolescents, UCLA Loneliness Scale, and Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale.

RESULTS

The average scores for smartphone addiction were found to be higher among females, individuals with low academic success, and those with a high-income level. Similarly, the average scores for loneliness were higher among individuals residing in broken families and those with parents who have limited literacy. Additionally, the mean scores for depression were higher among individuals with low academic success and those with a high-income level. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was observed between the duration of smartphone use and levels of smartphone addiction, loneliness, and depression.

CONCLUSION

Smartphone addiction, loneliness, and depression were found to be prevalent above the moderate level in adolescents. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was observed between the depression and loneliness scores of adolescents.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Pediatric and school nurses should assess children's phone use. Nurses are well-positioned to establish a follow-up program aimed at monitoring adolescents' efforts in managing smartphone use, offering continuous support, and providing guidance when necessary. The implementation of such programs enables prompt intervention in addressing any arising issues.

Prevalence and factors associated with digital addiction among students taking university entrance tests: a GIS-based study

BACKGROUND

The surge in digital media consumption, coupled with the ensuing consequences of digital addiction, has witnessed a rapid increase, particularly after the initiation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite some studies exploring specific technological addictions, such as internet or social media addiction, in Bangladesh, there is a noticeable gap in research focusing on digital addiction in a broader context. Thus, this study aims to investigate digital addiction among students taking the university entrance test, examining its prevalence, contributing factors, and geographical distribution using GIS techniques.

METHODS

Data from a cross-sectional survey were collected from a total of 2,157 students who were taking the university entrance test at Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh. A convenience sampling method was applied for data collection using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS 25 Version and AMOS 23 Version, whereas ArcGIS 10.8 Version was used for the geographical distribution of digital addiction.

RESULTS

The prevalence of digital addiction was 33.1% (mean score: 16.05 ± 5.58). Those students who are attempting the test for a second time were more likely to be addicted (42.7% vs. 39.1%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Besides, the potential factors predicted for digital addiction were student status, satisfaction with previous mock tests, average monthly expenditure during the admission test preparation, and depression. No significant difference was found between digital addiction and districts. However, digital addiction was higher in the districts of Manikganj, Rajbari, Shariatpur, and Chittagong Hill Tract areas, including Rangamati, and Bandarban.

CONCLUSIONS

The study emphasizes the pressing need for collaborative efforts involving educational policymakers, institutions, and parents to address the growing digital addiction among university-bound students. The recommendations focus on promoting alternative activities, enhancing digital literacy, and imposing restrictions on digital device use, which are crucial steps toward fostering a healthier digital environment and balanced relationship with technology for students.

Hooked on technology: examining the co-occurrence of nomophobia and impulsive sensation seeking among nursing students

BACKGROUND

Nomophobia, the crippling fear of being disconnected from mobile devices, is a burgeoning global concern. Given the critical nature of the profession of nursing students, understanding nomophobia's prevalence and potential impacts on patient care and professional conductors becomes even more crucial.

AIM

This study explores the relationship between nomophobia and impulsive sensation-seeking among nursing students in Egypt.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1626 nursing students randomly selected from three universities across Egypt.

TOOLS

The Arabic versions of the Nomophobia and Impulsive Sensation Seeking Questionnaires were employed to gather data.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that 40.3% of the surveyed nursing students exhibited severe nomophobia, indicating a substantial dependence on their mobile devices. Notably, this high prevalence was accompanied by a strong tendency towards impulsive sensation-seeking behaviors. Furthermore, a stepwise regression analysis identified several significant predictors of nomophobia (p < 0.001). Impulsive sensation-seeking, year of study, average daily smartphone usage, and age emerged as key factors, explaining 27.5% of the variability in nomophobia scores.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of nomophobia among Egyptian nursing students is undeniable, highlighting their substantial reliance on mobile devices. A significant association with impulsive sensation-seeking behavior further compounds this dependence. Factors such as impulsive sensation seeking, year of study, average daily smartphone usage, and age were identified as significant predictors of nomophobia. Recognizing these factors as key predictors of nomophobia is crucial for designing effective interventions and psychotherapies. Prioritizing such interventions can promote future nurses' well-being and ensure they deliver the highest quality care to their patients.

Psychometric Evidence of the Arabic Version of Nomophobia Questionnaire Among Physical Education Students

Purpose

Nomophobia refers to a psychological state in which individuals experience anxiety or fear at the thought of being disconnected from their mobile phone. The Nomophobia Questionnaire was developed to assess dimensions of nomophobia among native English-speaking populations. The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate the Nomophobia Questionnaire in the Tunisian context based on Western Arabic dialects.

Methods

This cross-sectional design using a non-probability sampling method was conducted from September 05 to October 06, 2022. A total of 644 participants, with an average age of 21.04 ± 1.59 years, completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and an Arabic version of the Nomophobia Questionnaire. Participants were divided into two groups to perform exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The first group consisted of 200 students (56% female and 44% male with an average age of 21.10 ± 1.64), with 33% (n = 66) freshmen, 41.5% second-year students (n = 83) and 25.5% (n = 51) of third-year students. The second group was collected one month later in the same establishment and was composed of 444 students (52% men and 48% female with an average age of 21.01 ± 1.57).

Results

The results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed that the 20 items and the second order four-factor structure should be retained. Confirmatory factor analysis of the Arabic version of the NMP-Q gave the following statistics: χ2/df= 1.47; Fit Index = 0.997; Adjusted goodness-of-fit index = 0.996; Tucker-Lewis index = 1.003; Comparative Fit Index = 1; Root mean square error of approximation = 0.000 (90% CI 0-0) and standardized mean residual = 0.030, indicating good model fit. McDonald's ω internal consistency indexes for the four factors, namely giving up convenience, not being able to access information, not being able to communicate, and losing connectedness were 0.821, 0.841, 0.851, and 0.897, respectively. These values demonstrated good scale consistency.

Conclusion

The Arabic Version of the Nomophobia questionnaire has been found to be a reliable and valid psychometric tool, and can be effectively used to measure nomophobia in countries where western Arabic dialects are spoken.